The reactions of Bahir Dar University students to moral dilemmas related to corruction: implications for moral education programmes

Abstract

This study aimed at examining moral reasoning related to corruption. Data were obtained from 350 purposively selected Bahir Dar University students (175 males and 175 females) using moral reasoning questionnaire. Using Kohlberg's theory of moral development and Gilligan's moral orientation model, the moral reasoning questionnaire was scored for moral stage and moral orientation. Results in multiple-regression analysis indicated that the old age group (22-26 yeas) had significantly higher stage of moral reasoning than the young age group (18-21 years) when responding to moral dilemmas about issues of corruption. But, there was no significant age group difference with respect to moral orientation. Furthermore, there was no gender difference in stage of moral reasoning and moral orientation. The importance of the results, particularly the educational implications, for understanding the role of psychological intervention programmes and commitments in combating corruption are discussed. Ethiopian Journal of Development Research Vol. 27 (2) 2005: pp. 49-79