Moral sensitivity in business: A revised measure
David Schmocker1, Carmen Tanner1,2, Johannes Katsarov3
1Plattenstrasse 32, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland Department of Banking and Finance, University of Zurich.
Current Psychology (New Brunswick, N.J.)
|May 22, 2023
Summary
This study validates a new measure for assessing moral sensitivity (MS) in the workplace. Empathic responsiveness was found to enhance moral sensitivity, offering practical applications for ethical management.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Business Ethics
- Organizational Behavior
Background:
- Moral sensitivity (MS) is crucial for managing workplace ethics.
- Existing measures for MS lack sufficient reliability and validity.
- A revised measure for the business domain (R-MSB) was developed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the psychometric properties of the revised moral sensitivity in business (R-MSB) measure.
- To assess individual differences in moral and business-related value sensitivity.
- To investigate the relationship between affective/empathic responses and MS/business sensitivity (BS).
Main Methods:
- Psychometric analysis of the R-MSB measure.
- Utilized two heterogeneous samples of Swiss and German employees (N=1168).
- Conducted three analytical studies examining factorial structure, validity, and associations with empathy.
Main Results:
- The R-MSB measure demonstrated good factorial structure, construct validity, and criteria-related validity.
- Empathic responsiveness was positively associated with moral sensitivity.
- The study provides evidence for the reliability and validity of the R-MSB instrument.
Conclusions:
- The R-MSB is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing moral sensitivity in business contexts.
- Empathy plays a significant role in enhancing moral sensitivity.
- Findings offer practical implications for improving ethical management and employee training.
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