INTEGRITY VS CORRUPTION: A MODEL OF CAUSALITY

Abstract

The article presents a theoretical model explaining the causal relationships and mechanisms of corrupt behaviour. Basic constructs such as „counterproductive behaviour“ and „integrity“, which are directly related to the topic of corruption, were examined. The model analyses, first of all, Predispositions for corrupt behaviour - human needs, the opportunities and, the third - situation of pressure to corrupt. These three groups of predispositions generate „The Overall potential for corruption“. Some of the depicted three groups of factors have long-term potential, other of them – short – term potential. The next component of the model includes Mediators (or moderators), which are subjective and objective in nature. These factors play a role as transmitters that might release (unleash) acts of corruption or may diminish the likelihood about that. Then, cognitive processes of decision making and their role about the outcome of the impact of the above mentioned components are examined. Finally, the importance of the type of the consequences of the corrupt (or non-corrupt) acts for whether it will manifest itself in the future is explained, not only in relation to the perpetrator himself, but also for their impact on other employees from the environment. At last, the verification of the model was carried out, addressing only one of the independent variables, which is a factor for corrupt behaviour - namely, personal integrity. For this purpose, the repertory grids method was used. The results prove that as lower is the level of personal integrity so statistically greater is probability that the relevant employee will commit a corrupt act.