Research ethics policy within the realm of academic publishing
encompasses a comprehensive framework guiding ethical conduct from the
inception of research projects to the dissemination of findings. It
emphasizes adherence to principles of integrity, transparency, and
respect for participants, aiming to uphold the credibility and
reliability of published research while fostering trust within the
scholarly community. Expectations outlined in this policy apply to
authors, reviewers, and editors concerning ethical conduct, data
integrity, authorship, conflicts of interest disclosure, and
protection of participants' rights and confidentiality. Adherence to
these policies is critical to ensuring research positively contributes
to knowledge advancement while minimizing potential harm.
Additionally, it safeguards the reputation of the journal and the
publisher, enhances accountability, and promotes ethical research
practices. Key areas addressed include obtaining informed consent,
ensuring privacy and confidentiality, maintaining integrity and
objectivity, respecting participants, minimizing harm, complying with
regulations, disclosing conflicts of interest, and practicing
responsible data management. Plagiarism is strictly prohibited and may
result in rejection or retraction of manuscripts. More information can
be found on the journals' websites.
- Informed Consent:
Research involving human participants necessitates obtaining
informed consent. For instance, in clinical trials, participants
must be fully informed about the study's purpose, risks, benefits,
and procedures, ensuring voluntary participation. All human studies
must align with the principles outlined in the Declaration of
Helsinki, with approval from the relevant ethics committee obtained
and detailed in submissions. Clarity on categorizations such as
race, age, or gender is required, using non-stigmatizing language.
- Privacy and Confidentiality:
Researchers must safeguard participants' personal information,
particularly in sensitive studies like those addressing mental
health. Anonymizing data and secure storage methods ensure
confidentiality, preventing personal identification.
- Integrity and Objectivity:
Honesty and objectivity are paramount in reporting research
findings, regardless of whether they align with initial hypotheses.
Transparency in reporting results, even if unexpected, maintains
credibility.
- Respect for Participants:
Participants must be treated with dignity and sensitivity throughout
the research process. Creating a non-threatening environment for
sharing experiences and ensuring their voices are accurately
represented in publications are essential aspects of respect.
- Minimization of Harm:
Researchers must minimize physical and psychological harm to
participants, emphasizing their well-being throughout the study.
- Compliance with Regulations:
Adherence to relevant laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines
governing research conduct, such as institutional review board
approvals, ensures ethical research practices.
- Authorship and Publication Ethics:
Authors must accurately report research findings and adhere to
publication guidelines, including those related to plagiarism and
data fabrication. All authors should meet the criteria for
authorship, with contributions appropriately acknowledged.
- Conflict of Interest Disclosure:
Authors are required to disclose any competing interests, ensuring
transparency for reviewers and readers. This includes financial and
non-financial interests that could influence research outcomes.
Responsible Data Management:
Researchers must responsibly manage and securely store research data to
maintain integrity, confidentiality, and accessibility. Adherence to
data retention policies protects against data loss or unauthorized
access.