Final answer:
The common theme in motivations for fraud is self-interest, which can be seen in personal gain, avoiding negative outcomes, or believing in a higher purpose. Motivated reasoning plays a role in justifying fraudulent actions, and in research, statistical fraud may occur to affirm a desired hypothesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The common theme among motivations for fraud is the presence of some kind of self-interest, despite the specifics varying from case to case. This self-interest might manifest as personal gain, the avoidance of negative consequences, or the belief in serving a higher purpose.
Individuals may commit fraud because they believe they won't get caught or rationalize their actions as necessary for a perceived greater good. For instance, an employee might justify embezzlement with the need to pay for a family member's medical expenses. Such actions can be explained by motivated reasoning, where individuals accept and reinforce beliefs that justify their actions, regardless of evidence to the contrary.
In research contexts, statistical fraud can arise from the desire to support a particular hypothesis. Researchers may cease data collection prematurely, as soon as their data seems to confirm their initial beliefs, negating the chance that further data could invalidate their hypothesis. This is done under the motivation to maintain a straightforward narrative that aligns with their personal or professional interests.