Personal Ethics Development
PHL 323
Personal Ethics Development
Treviño and Nelson (2011) define ethics as "the principles, norms, and standards of conduct governing an individual or organization ethics form the basis for determining the correct action or moral behavior, in a particular situation" (p. 17). Ethical principles develop and mature all through a person's life and are influenced by various things like environment, family, religious beliefs, culture, society, geographic location, education, and lifespan of experiences. These influences develop over time into our morals and values. Ethical principles guide the way one chooses to make decisions and affects behavior. Character is the overall of an individual’s moral qualities: is this person good or bad, trustworthy or not (Josephson, 2011). A person's character can be described by qualities such as honesty, compassion, integrity, and respect. Character is a reflection of a person's morals, values, and ethical principles.
Factors that have influenced my life and helped me to develop my ethical values are family, faith, knowledge, compassion for others, and the desire to do the right thing by them. My grandmothers always told me to treat others just as you want others to treat you or your family. These important factors assist me in my ability to identify and achieve my goals. These ethical principles I have learned help me with decision making both professionally and personally.
Living in a small town on a farm taught me many things. I learned that hard work pays off and when you respect others they respect you. You help others, and they will help you. Always be kind and considerate. Obey the rules; understand bad behavior has consequences, and to stand up for yourself. The characteristics were instilled in me from a young age by family teachers, and friends. Following high school I took the nursing entrance exam as I knew from an early age I wanted to take care of people. I failed so...