CPE Program Presentation:

Program Knowledge Level: Overview
Instructional delivery methods: Webinar

Prerequisite: None
Advance Preparation: None required
Recommended CPE credit: 3.0

Field of Study: Behavioral Ethics

Description:

Most ethics programs focus on what we should do—but Uncovering the Invisible You asks a deeper question: who are we, really? This course challenges participants to examine the internal, often unconscious forces that shape ethical decision-making. Ethical clarity, it suggests, goes beyond simply following rules; it requires radical self-awareness and the courage to confront how our beliefs, biases, and self-protective instincts color our perception of the world and ourselves. Drawing on neuroscience and behavioral research, the program reveals how neurotransmitters such as dopamine, oxytocin, and cortisol can distort self-perception, how we subconsciously process conflicting information, and why blind spots like framing effects, diffusion of responsibility, and biased reasoning so often go unnoticed. Participants will discover that being honest with ourselves is both more difficult—and more transformative—than it seems. Through discussion, case studies, and hands-on exercises, they’ll learn practical tools such as cognitive priming, third-party objectivity, and mental reframing to uncover unconscious distortions. Ultimately, this exploration of the hidden self is not only enlightening but engaging, blending science, insight, and interactive discovery to reshape how we think about ethics, leadership, and who we are.

Learning objectives:

1. Recognize at least one neuroscience-based factor or behavioral distortion—such as framing effects, diffusion of responsibility, or neurotransmitter influence—that may unconsciously impair ethical clarity.
2. Identify at least one strategy (e.g., cognitive priming, third-party mental models, or future-self distancing) that can increase awareness of internal biases and improve ethical self-recognition.
3. Apply at least one technique to recognize and correct biased processing of disconfirming or uncomfortable information to support greater internal transparency and ethical alignment.

Major Subjects:

• Behavioral distortions and cognitive blind spots
• Neurochemical influences on ethical decision-making
• Self-deception and internal transparency
• Ethical priming and reframing strategies
• Cognitive offloading and third-party perspective techniques
• Distinguishing perception from reality in ethical contexts

Presenters:

Dr. Toby Groves, Ph.D.

Dr. Toby Groves is a research psychologist specializing in critical thinking and high-stakes decisions. Through groundbreaking field research, he works directly with experts and decision-makers across government and industry, studying how they think and make some of society’s most crucial decisions. His live experiments and unique approach translate the latest findings from psychology and neuroscience into actionable strategies that help professionals improve their judgment and performance.

Toby Groves, Ph.D. is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing NATIONAL REGISTRY OF professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE sponsors through its website: www.NASBARegistry.org

Cancellation and refunds:

All cancellations must be received prior to the event and emailed to: Education.COAGA@gmail.com. A refund may not be issued if the cancellation notice is not received prior to the event.

Complaint resolution policy:

The AGA – Central Ohio Chapter will make every effort to provide the best training courses possible. In the event participants are not completely satisfied with the training course and wish to file a complaint, please contact Kevin O’Connor at Education.COAGA@gmail.com. within 10 business days of the event.

For information on upcoming AGA events, or for additional information regarding the AGA – Central Ohio Chapter organization, please visit our website at:                                    https://www.agacgfm.org/Chapters/CentralOhio/Home.aspx