Comparing Ethical Decision-making among Undergraduates: The Impact of Institutional Values

Abstract

This mixed-methods study explores the influence of institutional values on undergraduates’ ethical decision making. Analysis focused on whether graduating seniors differed from incoming first-year students with respect to: a) the ethical principles, and b) institutional values reflected in their responses to six ethical dilemmas college students typically encounter. Both narrative and survey data were collected. Significant within-group effects revealed both first-year and senior students vary their decisionmaking strategies when responding to different ethical scenarios. Selective between-group differences were also observed, reflecting the influence of institutional values on students’ ethical decision-making. Implications for student affairs professionals in higher education are discussed.