The Influence of Ethical Behaviour Factors Among Social Work Students at Public Universities in Malaysia

Abstract

Ethical behaviour is an important aspect among social work students who will be involved in workforce as a professional of social workers. Therefore, this article aims to measure the level and influence of ethical behavioural factors among social work students in public universities in Malaysia. This study applies quantitative research design by cross-sectional survey. A total of 215 final year social work students from six public universities in Malaysia were selected as respondents of the study. The study data was analysed using descriptive and multiple regression analyses. Based on the results found that social work students in public universities have a moderate to high-level ethical behaviour. Multiple regression analyses found that interpersonal communication variables, task management and leadership capabilities were key predictor factors influencing ethical behaviour among final year social work students at public universities. The study results have positive implications for the top management of the university, especially at the management of social work programs to improve programs that can nurture self-development and ethical behaviour among social work students in public universities in Malaysia.