The effects of exercise-induced stress on moral decision making

Moral decision-making during heightened physiological stress is critical in high-pressure fields, where rapid, ethical decisions are often required. This study investigates how physiological stress affects deontological and utilitarian decision-making, based on dual-processing theory. Participants completed the Congruent and Incongruent Moral Dilemmas Survey under two conditions: seated and exercising. A counter-balanced, crossover design was used, with participants alternating between seated and cycling phases. During the exercise phase, participants completed the questionnaire at vigorous intensity and HR was monitored. Results showed utilitarian scores were significantly less likely under physiological stress. Significant order effects were found, with utilitarian scores significantly lower when the exercise condition was first. Integrating the finding that physiological stress influences moral decision-making is essential in understanding moral development and improving decision-making under pressure.