Perception of corruption and its relationship with cultural development in Ecuador.

Abstract

This study investigated the differences in perception and experience of corruption in public administration among different generational groups in Ecuador and analyzed how these perceptions relate to indicators of cultural and social development. A cross-sectional design and stratified sampling by age were used, with 500 participants representing various generations, ranging from 18 to over 60 years old. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire that assessed perception, experience, and the impact of corruption on cultural and social development. The results indicated that young adults (18–29 years old) exhibited a significantly more critical perception of corruption compared to other age groups. The majority of participants reported having witnessed corrupt acts and agreed that corruption negatively affects cultural and social development. Regression analysis showed that a higher perception of corruption is associated with a decline in development indicators, although civic engagement moderates this impact. The study highlights the importance of reforming judicial and fiscal mechanisms to enhance transparency in public administration.

Keywords:

Corruption, Generational groups, Social development, Civic engagement, Perception.