Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Publication

Neutralization techniques as a moderating mechanism: ethically questionable behavior in the Romanian consumer context

Fukukawa, Kyoko
Zaharie, M-M.
Romonti-Maniu, A-I.
Publication Date
2019-02
End of Embargo
Supervisor
Rights
© 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: [FULL CITE], which has been published in final form at https://doi.org/10.1002/mar.21164. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Self-Archiving.
Peer-Reviewed
Yes
Open Access status
openAccess
Accepted for publication
21/08/2018
Institution
Department
Awarded
Embargo end date
Additional title
Abstract
Based on an empirical investigation in the context of Romania, this paper identifies a moderating role of neutralization techniques within ethically questionable consumer behavior. The quantitative study is based upon a synthesized model of Theory of Planned Behavior incorporating the factor of perceived unfairness and neutralization techniques. Significantly, neutralization techniques are shown to have a negative, but definite impact on the action to behave unethically. This leads to their consideration as a process of thinking, rather than as static judgement. As such, neutralization techniques are conceptually distinctive to the other factors. The paper analyses the results specific to the Romanian context, but noting implications for an understanding of the morality of markets with similar historical, political and economic conditions. Overall, the findings offer a more nuanced reading of consumer behavior. The paper places moral flexibility in terms of a specific cultural context, but also reveals how neutralization techniques can moderate ethically questionable behaviors beyond matters of self-interest, which in turn has implications for how companies can consider their responsibilities in relation to their customers.
Version
Accepted manuscript
Citation
Fukukawa K, Zaharie MM and Romonti-Maniu AI (2019) Neutralization techniques as a moderating mechanism: ethically questionable behavior in the Romanian consumer context. Psychology and Marketing. 36(2): 138-149.
Link to publisher’s version
Link to published version
Link to Version of Record
Type
Article
Qualification name
Notes