Psychosocial Determinants Related to the Ethical Performance of Researchers

Compliance with ethical principles in research by researchers plays a fundamental role in providing evidence-based and practical findings, subsequently solving society's problems and advancing knowledge. Despite numerous educational workshops and awareness-raising efforts, some unethical research practices are still observed. Identifying relevant factors is essential for practical and preventive planning. In this regard, the present study aimed to identify psychosocial determinants related to the ethical performance of researchers in conducting and publishing research works. The study was conducted using a qualitative approach based on conventional content analysis. A total of 29 faculty members and researchers from the medical sciences universities in Iran in various fields and specialties were selected purposively and semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants. Qualitative content analysis was used to categorize data and Lincoln and Guba’s criteria were employed to evaluate data. Data analysis led to the identification of 136 codes, 20 subcategories, and 4 main categories. The factors related to the ethical performance of researchers in conducting and publishing research works derived from interviews with researchers included "Laws", "Social Learning", "Knowledge and Literacy", and "Psychological Characteristics". According to the findings of this study, the ethical performance of researchers in the field of research is the result of the interaction of social, individual, personality, and legislative factors. Some factors, like personality traits, are long-lasting, resistant, and personal, while social factors are widespread, common, and more general. Research policymakers and managers can improve the ethical performance of researchers and place ethics at the center of attention in research by implementing educational methods, culture building, and behavior change.