Between Integrity and Obligation: The Lived Experiences of Human Resource Officers in Addressing Ethical Issues

Addressing Ethical issues in the workplace is a vital responsibility of Human Resource Officers as they balance personal integrity and organizational obligations. This qualitative phenomenological study explored the live experiences of Human Resource Officers in addressing ethical issues within their organizations. Using thematic analysis, the study gathered data through in-depth interviews with selected Human Resource Officers to understand their experiences, challenges, and decision-making processes. The findings revealed that Human Resource Officers frequently encounter ethical dilemmas involving employee discipline, fairness, biases, confidentiality, favoritism, and compliance with organizational policies and legal standards. Participants emphasized the importance of integrity, professionalism, and adherence to ethical principles in resolving these issues. The study highlights the need for clear ethical guidelines, continuous ethics training, and strong organizational support to assist HR officers in effectively addressing ethical issues. The result provides valuable insights for organizations and future researchers in strengthening ethical practices in human resource management.