A Few Examples Of The Many Types Of Accountability

Accountability can be defined as being accountable and having a commitment or willingness to accept responsibility for one’s actions. There are many types of accountability and situations where being accountable is demanded. Here are a few of those types.

Moral responsibility is the first type. Everyone has some sense of responsibility for themselves, although some have a better sense than others. Regardless, one is responsible for all of their actions and choices, and take all the consequences that come with those choices. When a person has demonstrated that they can be responsible, more responsibility is often placed on them. To some this might be a disadvantage to being accountable, but more power, trust, leadership, and even economic benefits comes with more responsibility, which can be an advantage.

Next is political. Politicians, civic leaders and the government are obliged to comply with specific responsibilities to the public as well as to other legislative bodies. All branches of government depend on the next, keeping each other under control so that no power is abused. On the other hand, public citizens have responsibilities towards the government, such as respecting and adhering to laws and regulations.

Market is the third type. The public are offered all sorts of services from publicly and privately owned companies. Clothing stores, grocery stores, schools, gas stations, restaurants, and hospitals are just some of the many services offered to the public. The owners and managers are required to provide services fairly and lawfully. Vendors are responsible for providing goods sellers justly and lawfully, too. Consumers are required to provide financial compensation for each service they use.

Fourth, is professional. Money is necessary to have in order to survive in this world. Most people have a job to provide their income and buy the things necessary for survival. Employers are responsible for seeing to it that their employees are compensated for their work, have a safe environment to work in, and abide by any administrative regulations. On the other hand, employees are responsibly for doing the work they are assigned to do and obey the rules of the job.

Last, is educational. From the time a child is five or six, they are expected to be enrolled in school. It is the duty of the government, church, or charter to provide teachers, learning material, and a building. There are many standards that a school and its teachers must live up to and pass onto the students. Students have the responsibility to learn and do the work required of learning. Parents also have a role in encouraging, promoting, and aiding their children’s education.

Clearly, there are many responsibilities required of every person in many different situations. Each person has the freedom to deny any responsibility asked of him or her. However, there is accountability in denying duty – an action that must be accounted for.

Shawn Shewchuk is the author of the book Change Your Mind, Change Your Results. Shawn is known as the Strategic Accountability Coach and has assisted thousands of people in achieving unbelievable results. After two years in development and working with over 5000 of the top executives across the country, this phenomenal program is now being made available to you. It’s FREE, click here now.