Assessing Employees’ Unethical Behavior’s and t heir Effects on Public Organizations Performance

Abstract

This research study assessed unethical behaviors among employees in public institutions and their effects on organizational performance, with a specific focus on the National Health Insurance Fund Headquarters (NHIF-HQ) in the City of Dodoma, Tanzania. The study employed a case study design and a qualitative research approach, allowing for an in-depth exploration of the experiences and perspectives of employees regarding workplace unethical behaviors . Data was collected through interviews with 30 participants, including management and staff at NHIF-HQ. The research revealed that unethical behaviors in the workplace are prevalent and have adverse effects on NHIF's performance. These behaviors are primarily driven by factors such as job dissatisfaction, unfair treatment, and job stress. The consequences of unethical behavior at NHIF include diminished customer satisfaction, poor employee productivity, and suboptimal financial performance. Additionally, the study evaluates the effectiveness of managerial strategic approaches in curbing unethical behaviors. Ethical training programs, clear ethical guidelines, ethical communication, code of conduct implementation, ethical leadership, and reward and punishment systems are found to be effective in addressing ethical problems, including the prevention of fraud, insubordination, and absenteeism. The findings of this research hold important implications for the government, policymakers, and researchers in addressing unethical behaviors in public institutions. Government and policymakers can utilize the findings to develop evidence-based policies and guidelines