Impact of Ethical Dilemmas on Decision Making in Ambiguous Situations among Police Employees

Abstract

This research explored the relationship between ethical dilemmas and decision-making in ambiguous situations among n=200 police officers in Punjab, Pakistan, employing a mixed-methods approach that integrated quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Guided by ethical decision-making and psychological theories, the study examined how organizational support and years of experience influence officers' ability to navigate ethical challenges. The findings reveal that while higher organizational support was slightly linked to improved ethical decision-making, this relationship was not statistically significant. Conversely, more excellent experience was associated with enhanced decision-making capabilities, though no strong correlation was found between the frequency of ethical dilemmas and decision-making effectiveness. Psychological factors, including stress, cognitive biases, and emotional responses, significantly impact decision-making processes, supporting the hypothesis that these elements are critical in shaping how officers handle ambiguous situations. This study is crucial as it provides a nuanced understanding of how organizational and psychological factors contribute to ethical decision-making in law enforcement. It highlights the need for enhanced organizational support systems, continuous professional development, and targeted psychological interventions, such as stress management and cognitive bias training, to equip officers for ethical decision-making better. By addressing the gaps identified and proposing directions for future research, this study offers valuable insights into improving ethical practices within police agencies, ultimately contributing to more effective and moral law enforcement.