Designing a Model for Explaining and Fighting Corruption in the Private Sector, Using Grounded Theory

Many companies around the world face corruption and suffer from its negative consequences. Considering the destructive effects of corruption upon private sector enterprises, urges the need for developing a model in this area. Regarding the fact that most researches till now have been in the public sector, adds to this urgency. Thus the purpose of this study is to articulate a model for fighting private sector corruption. The research method used is Grounded Theory. Using a theoretical sampling method, twenty one semi-structured interviews with experts from Tehran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture were conducted. The government departments in charge of fighting private sector corruption were added. Open, axial and selective coding were applied. Based on the findings, the main category was divided into two financial groups: 1) direct and 2) indirect. Also twelve concepts were classified as individual, interpersonal of casual factors. Moreover, seventeen concepts in context platform template and eleven interfering factors concepts were identified. Besides, twenty eight concepts were distinguished in the form of individual, interpersonal, organizational, inter-organizational and environmental of consequences factors. Furthermore, twenty-five concepts in the form of preventive, control and fighting corruption strategies were diagnosed.