Instead of doing the right thing, some people may do what they think will make them happier. However, new research from the University of Missouri reveals that doing what is right can also make individuals feel better, CBS MoneyWatch reported.

In a recent study, economist Harvey James analyzed data from the 2005-2006 World Values Survey, according to the news source. This information provided insight into the beliefs, happiness and ethical behavior of respondents in more than 80 countries.

James identified a link between participants' satisfaction with their lives and their responses to ethics questions, the news outlet stated. Based on the data, individuals who found ethical scenarios more acceptable also tended to be happier with their lives.

"My personal belief is that not being willing to justify ethically questionable behaviors may improve a person's psychological well-being, perhaps because he or she avoids feelings of guilt or shame," James said, as quoted by the news source. "This could in turn produce an increase in happiness."

According to the Georgia Statement, past research by LRN, a provider of governance, ethics and compliance management services, showed that an ethical work environment can influence employees' behavior and productivity. As a result, managers and other business leaders may want to take a career test to see if they have the right traits to oversee other workers.