14 psychological reasons why good people do bad things

It's an old story: the star executive who gets caught waist-deep in a fraud scandal; the finance phenom who steals millions by skimming off the top.What causes these smart, successful people to get wrapped up in illegal activities and unethical behavior' Dr. Muel Kaptein of the Rotterdam School of Management tackled this question in a paper about why good people do bad things.These major crimes usually escalate from smaller offenses or lapses in judgment that are rationalized by a slew of psychological reasons.Business Insidercollected 14insights from Kaptein that explain a few of the various reasons why good people lie, cheat, and steal.This is an update of a story originally reported by Max Nisen and Aimee Groth.SEE ALSO:A relationship therapist explains the biggest reason money ruins marriagesDON'T MISS:15 quotes from self-made billionaires that will change your outlook on moneyThe Galatea effectSelf image determines behavior. People who have a strong sense of themselves as individuals are less likely to do unethical things.Alternatively, employees who see themselves as determined by their environment or having their choices made for them are more likely to bend the rules, as they feel less individually responsible.Source:Muel KapteinSocial bond theoryIn large organizations, employees can begin to feel more like numbers or cogs in a machine than individuals.When people feel detached from the goals and leadership of their workplace, they are more likely to commit fraud, steal, or hurt the company via neglect.Source:Muel KapteinThe power of namesWhen bribery becomes "greasing the wheels" or accounting fraud becomes "financial engineering," unethical behavior may be seen in a more positive light.The use of nicknames and euphemisms for questionable practices can free them of their moral connotations, making them seem more acceptable.Source:Muel KapteinSee the rest of the story at Business Insider
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