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The Influence of Unethical Peer Behavior on Observers’ Unethical Behavior: A Social Cognitive Perspective

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  • Michael O’Fallon
  • Kenneth Butterfield

Abstract

The relationship between unethical peer behavior and observers’ unethical behavior traditionally has been examined from a social learning perspective. We employ two additional theoretical lenses, social identity theory and social comparison theory, each of which offers additional insight into this relationship. Data from 600 undergraduate business students in two universities provide support for all the three perspectives, suggesting that unethical behavior is influenced by social learning, social identity, and social comparison processes. Implications for managers and future research are discussed. Copyright Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2012

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  • Michael O’Fallon & Kenneth Butterfield, 2012. "The Influence of Unethical Peer Behavior on Observers’ Unethical Behavior: A Social Cognitive Perspective," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 109(2), pages 117-131, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jbuset:v:109:y:2012:i:2:p:117-131
    DOI: 10.1007/s10551-011-1111-7
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    6. Brown, Michael E. & Trevino, Linda K. & Harrison, David A., 2005. "Ethical leadership: A social learning perspective for construct development and testing," Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, Elsevier, vol. 97(2), pages 117-134, July.
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