Evaluate the relationship between psychological detachment moral identity and ethical decision making

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between psychological detachment, moral identity, and ethical decision-making among teaching faculty in India. A cross-sectional research design was employed, involving 45 faculty members with a minimum of two years in their current role and at least five years of teaching experience. Data were collected using three standardized instruments: the Recovery Experience Questionnaire (REQ), the Moral Identity Questionnaire (MIQ), and the Ethical Position Questionnaire (EPQ). These surveys were distributed via email to faculty across various universities. The results revealed a significant negative correlation between psychological detachment and ethical decision-making, as well as a moderate negative correlation with idealism (r = -.393, p < .05). Additionally, mastery was positively associated with both relaxation (r = .352, p < .05) and moral self (r = .348, p < .05). Moral integrity showed a strong positive correlation with idealism (r = .880, p < .01). The inverse relationship between psychological detachment and ethical decision-making suggests that as faculty mentally disengage from work-related pressures, their ability to make ethical decisions may decline.