The Role of Ethical Behavior Guidelines and Ethics Training on the Institutionalization of Ethics: A Study in Public Institutions

This study focuses on the relationship the perception of ethical codes and ethics training programs have on the institutionalization of ethics in Turkey's public institutions. The study additionally examines the mediating role of the sub-dimensions of ethics institutionalization. For this purpose, a survey methodology approach has been applied on a sample of 551 public servants. The statistical analyses indicate public servants' perceptions of ethical behavior guidelines to have a positive impact on the implicit and explicit institutionalization of ethics and its overall construct. Ethics training programs are also found to be a determinant of explicit institutionalization of ethics. Lastly, explicit institutionalization plays a partial mediating role on the relationship between the perception of ethical codes and the implicit institutionalization of ethics. The study provides support that ethical issues and implications are also as important in public organizations as in the private sector. The perception of ethical codes is vital for establishing an ethical culture and climate as well as for public institutions to increase their public image and quality of service.