The effect of gender on the ethicality of decision making in private schools in North Lebanon

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between gender and ethical decision making among middle managers in private schools in North Lebanon. We studied how gender stereotypes, ethical culture, self-interest, values and beliefs, personal traits, and socio-cultural and socio economic factors affect decision-making processes. The quantitative research findings showed that there is a significant difference between genders and their ethical practices, highlighting that females showcase greater levels of ethical awareness and behavior in different scenarios. Despite the fact that the number of studies on the correlation between gender and ethical decision-making in Lebanon is very limited, we were able to show the significance of gender stereotype as a main factor that affects ethical behavior and the importance of addressing this in educational institutions. Our findings show that gender stereotypes, ethical culture, personal traits, and socio-cultural and socio-economic factors have an influence on ethical decision-making. We recommend for schools to create proactive measures to empower both genders to make decisions regardless of societal expectations: or boundaries regarding each gender. Moreover, fostering a strong ethical culture within schools and having clear standards can reflect positively on these ethical environments of the institutions. By promoting an inclusive and ethical environment, schools can equally support the decisions of both genders.