The role of emotions during the acceptance of corruption decisions and actions

Abstract

Background. Researching the role of emotions in making corrupt decisions and actions is an urgent task, since corruption remains a serious threat to society and the economy in many countries. One of the aspects of the problem of corrupt behavior is the role of emotions when making corrupt decisions and actions. The concept of norms states that participating in or observing corruption leads to different emotions depending on the prevailing norms. Emotions signal adherence to norms and thus regulate people's behavior. The system of norms determines the connection between emotions and corruption, inspires new research and forms anti-corruption policy. The purpose of the article is to reveal and understand how emotions influence a person's personal decision to participate in corrupt practices. Methods. To determine the role of emotions in some cases of corruption, the following methods were used: selection, study and analysis of corruption stories. Results. Conducted theoretical and empirical studies confirm that numerous emotions, both positive and negative, serve as factors of corruption. Empirical studies show that fear and anxiety about punishment reduce the willingness to participate in corrupt practices. Theoretical studies also suggest that feelings of shame and guilt have a negative effect on propensity for corruption, but these theories have not been supported by evidence. There is currently no explanation for this conflicting evidence. C o n c l u s i o n s . The results obtained within this study can have an important practical impact on the development of effective anti-corruption strategies and policies aimed at reducing corruption in various spheres of society. Understanding the role of emotions in corruption decisions can contribute to more successful measures to solve this serious problem. The results of the study can also serve as a basis for developing a deeper understanding of the psychology of corruption and contribute to the creation of more successful measures to solve this problem.