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What is integrity?

Topics: Life Skills

People with integrity tell the truth and act in a sincere way. They treat people equally and take responsibility for their own feelings and actions. Integrity is more than just being honest; it's acting ethically, consistently, and in a trustworthy manner.

Integrity is sometimes summed up as "doing the right thing, even when no one is looking." It's an apt motto for kids in the digital age, when everything from cheating with cell phones to plagiarizing to cyberbullying anonymously can be done with no witnesses. Integrity secures the whole foundation of our interconnected relationships -- both online and off.

It's natural for kids to have setbacks as they build their character strengths. Be patient and forgiving, as integrity is strengthened over time in various challenging situations.

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