Ethical Culture in Public Sector Organisations in the Field of Social Security in the Region of Celje
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37886/Keywords:
public sector organisation, ethics, organisational culture, ethical culture, ethical atmosphere, ethical valuesAbstract
The research question (RV): Are specific dimensions of ethical culture according to Kaptein different considering the employees’ position and education in public sector organisations in the field of social security in the region of Celje, and do they differ according to the type of organisation in the field of social security?
Purpose: The purpose of the research was to study dimensions of ethical culture in public sector organisations in the field of social security in the region of Celje and establish whether specific dimensions of ethical culture according to Kaptein are different considering the employees’ position and education and whether they differ according to the type of organisation in the field of social security.
Method: For the purpose of the study quantitative research paradigm was used. The data were collected on the basis of a structured questionnaire according to Muel Kaptein’s typology. All employees at Social Work Centre, Employment Service, Health Insurance Institute, Pension and Disability Insurance Institute of Celje were placed in the research sample.
Results: It was established that there were no statistically significant differences according to employees’ workplace and education in dimensions of ethical culture evaluations. When considering the type of organisation where workers are employed, there are statistically significant differences in dimensions of clarity, compliance management, support, discussion opportunities and intended consequences.
Organisation: The study points to the importance and urgency of directing staff awareness in order to be a good example with their ethical behaviour and their respect to the clients and employees. The survey results aim at better understanding and awareness of the actual situation that prevails in their organisations and furthermore offers the opportunity for improvements and considerations.
Society: Unethical behaviour of predominantly superiors and directing staff has a negative impact on the employees since they often find themselves in stressful situations which influence on their relationship to co-workers and clients. Stressful situations lead to longer absences from work which consequently extends the period of administration procedure and clients’ dissatisfaction.
Originality: We were the first to find out whether the dimensions of ethical culture according to Kaptein are different considering the employees’ position and education in public sector organisations in the field of social security in the region of Celje.
Limitations/further research: The study limitation is reflected in the employees’ smaller degree of responsiveness and the fact that the research was carried out only in Celje Regional Unit.
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