The Impact of Psychological Distance on Moral Behavior

Event Name / Location

Southwest Academy of Management

Presentation Date

2014

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Presenter(s) / Author(s)

Randi L. Sims, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow
Baiyun Gong, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow

Description

Immoral or unethical behavior is often at the center of scandal. It makes headline news and is the basis for considerable academic research and case analysis. Yet, moral behavior as a separate construct from moral intent, has not received the same attention. The purpose of this paper is to consider the importance of psychological distance on moral behavior. Within the context of moral behavior, psychological distance refers to felt or perceived differences between victim, offender, and moral agent. A brief review of related theory is offered as are four propositions tying the constructs of psychological distance, emotional intensity, and values violation to moral behavior. Contribution to theory and suggestions for future research are discussed.

NSUWorks Citation

Sims, Randi L. and Gong, Baiyun, "The Impact of Psychological Distance on Moral Behavior" (2014). HCBE Faculty Presentations. 588.
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/hcbe_facpres/588