Goal setting and Cheating: Why They Often Go Together in the Workplace [Archive.org URL]

From childhood on, individuals are told that setting goals for themselves will make them more successful in whatever they set out to do – whether it’s win tennis games, ace their exams or become CEO of their company. But goal-setting also has a dark side to it, according to a recent research paper by a Wharton faculty member and two colleagues. In addition to motivating constructive behavior, goal setting – especially if it involves rewards such as bonuses or perks – can also motivate unethical behavior when people fall short of the goals they set or that are set for them.

Like this content? Why not share it?