Workaholism is often seen as a sign of dedication, but a new study from Aston University and the University of Leipzig highlights its hidden ethical costs. While an intense drive to work can provide a sense of purpose, it also leads to burnout, strained relationships, and now—according to this research—moral disengagement.
The study suggests that workaholism weakens employees’ commitment to ethical standards, particularly in workplaces that emphasize profits and individual success over collective well-being. Workaholics become less likely to speak up about unethical practices and more prone to rationalizing silence when they witness wrongdoing.
Moral disengagement
Researchers surveyed over 1,500 employees in Italy and the UK at multiple points in time. They found that workaholism fosters moral disengagement—where individuals detach from their ethical beliefs to justify questionable behavior. This disengagement, in turn, leads to a decline in moral voice (raising ethical concerns) and an increase in employee silence.
The problem worsens in workplaces that promote self-interest above shared values. In such environments, workaholics disengage from moral considerations even more, making them even less likely to challenge unethical practices.
“We often think of workaholism as a personal issue or a mark of commitment, but our research shows it has wider consequences,” the researchers explain. “Workaholics, focused on productivity and personal achievement, often sideline their moral values. This allows unethical behavior to persist unchecked, harming both organizations and society.”
Failure to call out issues
By justifying their silence—believing it to be harmless or necessary—workaholics fail to call out serious issues like unsafe working conditions, poor leadership, or systemic inefficiencies. This normalization of silence can erode ethical standards across an organization.
The study underscores the need for a cultural shift. Companies should move beyond valuing long hours and relentless dedication as signs of commitment. Instead, they should encourage ethical awareness, reward moral courage, and reduce the pressures that drive excessive work. Ethical organizations are not just better for individuals—they are more sustainable in the long run.
