Corruption as a contagious psychosocial disorder : a conceptual analysis

Abstract EN

Background: Corruption is defined as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain.

It is a world-wide phenomenon, particularly in the developing societies.

It has been mentioned as a cause of destruction of many empires and powerful states in the history.

No effective evidence-based prevention or treatment has been identified, yet.

The objective of this study is to describe a conceptual framework using psychosocial analysis based on current scientific theories to explain corruption as a contagious psychosocial disorder to be correctly diagnosed, prevented and treated.

Methods: This is a theoretic conceptual analysis describing corruption for the first time in terms of contagious psychosocial disorder.

The sample concerns structural and functional positions at the Child Mental Health Center (CMHC) in the city of Duhok, Kurdistan region of Iraq (KRI) during December 2018 - February 2019.

No experimental or clinical data are included.

Accordingly, a package of Psychosocial Anti-Corruption Tools (PACT) is presented as an intervention to replace identified actions of corruption.

Results: Specific diagnostic criteria, such as: Illegal or un authorized gain, more than one salary, unjustified power position…etc.

, are found to classify corruption as a contagious psychosocial disorder according to current theories concerning a etiology, pathogenesis, clinical picture, consequences, prevention and treatment.

This is the first pilot project that has been started at a governmental organization.

Conclusions: Corruption can be Hypothesised as a contagious psychosocial disorder to be tested in further rigorous research in other cultures, societies, and countries where corruption is prevailing.