Ethics in College: Navigating the Moral Maze

Exploring the intricate web of ethics in college life, this essay delves into the factors influencing students' decision-making processes. Defined as the morals or principles governing behavior, ethics form a crucial aspect of the college experience. The journey through ethical dilemmas is marked by the interplay of various elements, shaping the choices students make.

One predominant influencer is the socialization process. During childhood, individuals imbibe behaviors, developing morals and values primarily under the guidance of their families. The significance of family influence is evident in the cultivation of values like the proper use of grammar, the importance of education, and a strong work ethic.

Conversely, negative influences such as alcohol and drug abuse, poverty, and physical abuse can mold attitudes and behaviors. The impact of peer pressure on ethical decision-making is highlighted in a UCLA study, revealing that 52% of students acknowledge its sway (Yeung and Keup, 2009). Moreover, students' ethical behavior is strongly correlated with their perceptions of peer beliefs and behaviors.

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College life presents a myriad of dilemmas, from underage drinking to illegal drug use and casual sex. Contrary to a study in 1916 reporting the rarity of underage drinking and drug use, a 2009 UCLA survey exposes a significant shift. Shockingly, 78% of students under 21 admit to alcohol consumption, and 57% of all students confess to using illegal drugs, with peer pressure playing a pivotal role (Yeung and Keup, 2009). Stress exacerbates these challenges, as evidenced by 82% of students considering unethical actions like plagiarism, cheating, or lying under pressure (Yeung and Keup, 2009).

Adding another layer to the ethical landscape, social media emerges as a powerful force shaping college students' decisions.

Bruce D. Bruce, in "Philosophy for the Masses: Ethics," contends that advertising and media can be deceptive and persuasive, blurring the line between right and wrong, especially for the youth (Bruce, 2009, p.200).

Plagiarism, a recurring ethical dilemma, is influenced by stress, peer pressure, and social media. Despite contemplating plagiarism in stressful situations, many students recognize its moral wrongness. Intriguingly, students express a preference for alternative unethical actions, such as stealing food or using fake identification, over plagiarism. The guilt and condemnation associated with the mere thought of plagiarism underscore its ethical complexity.

Guiding students through the ethical decision-making process are time management and the Ethical PEAS framework (Framework of Ethical Decision Making, para 2-3). Establishing a structured routine, encompassing homework, study time, and extracurricular activities, aids in avoiding the rush that may lead to unethical choices. The Ethical PEAS model, outlined by Montana State University, provides a systematic approach:

P – What is the Problem?
E – What is the Evidence?
A – Analyze; What guidelines or theories will help me in my process?
S – What is the Solution to my problem?

Furthermore, students can employ various ethical theories in their decision-making process, including the Front Page Newspaper Test, End/Means Test, The Golden Rule, Utilitarianism, and Professional Standards of Conduct (Framework of Ethical Decision Making, para 4).

Elaborating on the socialization process, it is crucial to recognize its pervasive influence on individuals. Families not only shape values but also contribute to the development of character. The lessons learned in early life, whether positive or negative, serve as a moral compass for navigating the ethical complexities of college. However, the impact extends beyond familial ties. As students transition to college, peer interactions become a significant factor. Friendships and social circles play a pivotal role in shaping ethical perspectives, as evidenced by the UCLA study, where more than half of the respondents admitted to the influence of peer pressure on their ethical choices.

Delving deeper into the realm of college dilemmas, the prevalence of underage drinking and illegal drug use demands scrutiny. The shift from the early 1900s, where such behaviors were rare, to the current scenario highlights evolving societal norms. The alarming statistics from the UCLA survey underscore the urgency of addressing these issues. It is essential to understand the interconnectedness of factors like peer pressure, stress, and changing priorities contributing to this shift. By doing so, educators and policymakers can formulate targeted interventions to promote responsible behavior among college students.

Examining the role of stress in ethical decision-making, it becomes evident that academic pressures can lead to compromised principles. The UCLA study's revelation that 82% of students would consider unethical actions during stressful situations raises concerns about the mental well-being of the college population. Implementing effective stress management strategies becomes imperative to mitigate the potential ethical fallout. Colleges should prioritize creating a supportive environment that fosters emotional resilience, ensuring students can navigate challenges without resorting to unethical behavior.

Social media, a double-edged sword in modern society, introduces complexities into the ethical equation. Bruce D. Bruce's assertion about the deceptive and persuasive nature of media underscores the need for media literacy education. Students must develop critical thinking skills to discern between ethical and unethical influences in the digital realm. Educational institutions can play a pivotal role in equipping students with the tools to navigate the ethical challenges posed by social media, promoting responsible online behavior.

Returning to the persistent issue of plagiarism, it is essential to explore the underlying motivations and alternatives that students consider. While stress and peer pressure may push students towards unethical actions, understanding their reluctance to plagiarize sheds light on their moral compass. The fact that students would rather resort to alternative unethical actions, such as stealing food or using fake identification, implies a nuanced approach is required in addressing ethical challenges. Institutions must focus on cultivating a culture of academic integrity while simultaneously providing mental health support to cope with stressors.

Further augmenting the ethical decision-making toolkit, the Ethical PEAS framework offers a structured approach. The acronym prompts students to assess the problem, gather evidence, analyze using ethical guidelines or theories, and formulate a solution. This systematic process empowers students to navigate ethical dilemmas with clarity and integrity. Additionally, the incorporation of ethical theories such as the Front Page Newspaper Test, End/Means Test, The Golden Rule, Utilitarianism, and Professional Standards of Conduct provides a multifaceted perspective. Students can leverage these frameworks to evaluate the ethical implications of their actions comprehensively.

In conclusion, the ethical landscape of college life is intricate and multifaceted. The socialization process, peer influences, evolving societal norms, stress, social media, and personal values collectively shape the ethical journey of students. Acknowledging the interconnected nature of these factors is essential for devising effective strategies to address ethical challenges. By fostering a culture of ethical awareness, providing mental health support, and equipping students with ethical decision-making tools, educational institutions can empower students to navigate the moral maze of college life. While ethical dilemmas may persist, the commitment to self-awareness and doing the right thing remains paramount in the evolving landscape of higher education.