Expert: Brian Lawrence - 3/17/2009

Question
QUESTION: Well I have another question.We were going over a paper in class and the girl beside me wanted to know what the answer was even though we had just went over it(but she should have had it finished anyway.)so is that cheating because I told her what it was?
She said it wasn't cheating.

ANSWER: You need to follow your own conscience. If you think it's cheating and are uncomfortable doing it, then don't. You have to decide whether it's more important for you to help out your classmates or to take a stance on cheating.

One way is to examine your own motives. Why did you help this girl? Was it because you felt sympathy for her and wanted to truly help her out? Or was it because if you didn't you're afraid she wouldn't like you? In this case, motive makes a difference.

You can only control your actions. You cannot control the actions of others. You need to do the right thing and not worry about whether others are doing the right thing.

I hope this helps.

Brian.
http://www.thefourthewatch.net


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I did it because I felt that she would get an attitude with me if I didn't and just to avoid confrontation,I did it,so was I really cheating because of what my motive was?

Answer
Yes, your motivation was to avoid confrontation. This isn't always bad, but if it leads to further problems, then at some point you have to nip it in the bud.

It's hard to take a stand for what we believe is right and sometimes it there will be consequences. However, if done in love and respect, can lead to respect from others.

Brian.
http://www.thefourthwatch.net