Framing effects and social context as determinants of dishonest behavior

Abstract

This study investigates how framing (gain vs. loss), social context (online vs. in person) and gender influence dishonest behavior (DB). Based on Prospect Theory and Social Distance Theory, we hypothesized that loss framing and online settings would increase DB. A total of 238 participants completed the Difference Spotting Task, under both framing conditions in either an online or in-person setting. Contrary to the hypothesis, framing had no significant effect on DB, suggesting that loss aversion does not universally drive cheating, potentially due to context-dependent factors like task design or low stakes. In contrast, DB was significantly higher in online settings, supporting the role of anonymity and social distance in reducing norm adherence. While women cheated more frequently, no significant gender differences were found in the extent of DB or its interaction with other factors. Social context appears more influential than framing in shaping DB.