which mechanism is criticized for paradoxically increasing unethical behavior despite the intent to prevent problems?

• A. Polygraph examinations
• B. Compliance systems
• C. Honor systems
• D. Security cameras

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is that well‑intended prevention measures can backfire when they create perverse incentives. Compliance systems rely on formal rules, audits, and checklists to deter misconduct. But when people know that success is measured by ticking boxes and passing inspections, they may shift their focus from genuine ethical behavior to simply meeting the letter of the rules. This can lead to gaming the system, exploiting loopholes, or documenting compliance without true integrity, which in turn can increase unethical actions rather than prevent them. The other options don’t capture this dynamic as clearly: polygraph use raises concerns about reliability and isn’t widely described as causing more unethical behavior; security cameras mainly deter and can improve detection; honor systems depend on internal ethics and aren’t typically cited as paradoxically increasing misconduct.