Abstract:
In at least three prior studies in the United States, sex differences m
dishonest behavior have been reported ( Eisen, 1972; Mussen, Rutherford, Harvis &
Keasey, 1970; Ward, 1986). In each case, sex role socialization theory has been invoked
either directly or indirectly to account for the differences. Women have been socialized to
obey the rules, whereas the socialization of men is less insistent in this regard. Sex role
socialization, then, is thought to influence tendencies toward dishonesty through
differences in internalized role requirements.
Presently, the researcher has conducted a study that proved or disproved
some of these claims. The study was participated in by 216 students of the UP College of
Medicine. This study aimed to determine the factors that affect students to engage in acts
of academic dishonesty. Specifically it supports : (1) to determine how male and female
respondents differ in their attitudes towards cheating based on excuses found in the
neutralization techniques; (2) to determine the reasons why and how different male and
female students cheated; (3) to determine how male and female respondents differ with
regards to their emotions to cheating;· (4) to determine if external factors such as the
frequency of observing religious services and that of present socioeconomic status
influence the engagement of cheating; and (5) to determine if awareness of the UP honor
code discourages or does not affect the student, male or female, to cheat at all. Results
showed that most males felt no remorse during and after cheating, while most of the
females felt guilty. Religious observance, socioeconomic class, and degree of awareness
of the UP honor code did not have any influence whatsoever towards the students'
attitude to cheat.
