Showing 38 results for Research
Mahboubeh Shali, Samira Mohammadi, Hasan Shahbazi, Nooshin Kohan, Bagher Larijani, Shohreh Naderi Magham,
Volume 16, Issue 0 (11-2023)
Abstract
To enhance the level of health literacy among the public, it is essential to take steps towards empowering people to recognize and control the influential factors on health. University professors, as health knowledge promoters, are recognized as educators of health skills and advocates for healthy lifestyles and behaviors. This study aimed to elucidate the role of medical professors in promoting the health literacy of the public. The present study was conducted using conventional content analysis. The participants were selected using purposive sampling with maximum variation. A total of 20 professors from medical universities, the Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, and the Ministry of Health were purposively selected until information saturation. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed simultaneously with data collection. Twenty participants (9 females and 11 males) with an average age of 50.3 and an average work experience of 23.45 years took part in the study. After data analysis, 947 initial codes were extracted, and subsequently, categorized into five main categories and fifteen subcategories. Infrastructure development, content production, role model, self-empowerment, and culture building were identified as the main categories. University professors can, through a skillful combination of various elements within the educational system, either propel students and the general public towards lofty goals or deprive them of achieving such objectives. However, factors such as the low number of professors relative to the number of students, the high workload of faculty members, lack of resources, and the overwhelming life responsibilities of faculty members have influenced their performance and role in this regard. To achieve the goal of encouraging professors in enhancing the health literacy of society, it is imperative to bring these constraints to the attention of authorities for resolution.
Maryam Aala, Rita Mojtahedzadeh, Aeen Mohammadi, Neda Mehrdad, Moloud Payab, Snor Bayazidi, Mahin Nomali, Mohammad Eghbal Heidari, Alireza Olyaemanesh, Bagher Larijani,
Volume 16, Issue 0 (11-2023)
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has created opportunities and challenges for education and research as the two main academic activities in medical sciences disciplines, which due to their mutual influence can be used to propose solutions for improving these two areas. The present study was conducted to compare two review articles, each of which dealt with one of these two areas.
This comparative study with a qualitative explanatory design was conducted in three steps. First, two review articles were selected that investigated the opportunities and challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic to propose strategies for the post-corona era. Then, both studies were carefully studied and described. Finally, two researchers separately extracted the similarities and differences mentioned in the two articles and compared them to remove the inconsistencies. A panel of experts confirmed the findings. The opportunities and challenges mentioned in the two articles were extracted and categorized into two areas based on similarities and differences. The similar proposed strategies for the post-corona era were continuing to use virtual space facilities, diversifying the communication methods with students and research participants, and providing and developing suitable electronic infrastructure. Comparing two review articles and determining the similarities and differences between the opportunities and challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the strategies for the post-COVID-19 era related to medical education and clinical research, led to proposing strategies that could promote these two related areas coherently.
Samireh Abedini, Elham Imani,
Volume 16, Issue 1 (3-2023)
Abstract
Face many ethical challenges during this course. Since ethics is an important factor in providing health services to clients, this study was designed to explain the ethical challenges in training in viewpoint of medical students. This qualitative study was conducted with content analysis approach. Purposeful sampling was performed and data were collected using in-depth, face-to-face and semi-structured individualized interviews. Data analysis was done simultaneously with qualitative content analysis using inductive approach according to Elo and Kingaz (2008). In this study, information was gathered after interviewing 40 students of Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences. The mean age of participants was 22/67±1/22 years. After analyzing the text of the interviews, two themes and seven categories were finally obtained. Themes were named under the headings: ethical challenges in clinical field and ethical challenges in clinical training supervisors. According to the results of interviews with different students, it is imperative that the faculty members pay special attention to the ethical challenges in hospitals and clinics and consider the necessary steps to familiarize students with ethical issues, how to deal with these issues and how to make decisions in ethical situations.
Amirahmad Shojaee, Fazlollah Hasanvand, Hamidreza Namazi, Mojtaba Parsa, Kobra Rashidi,
Volume 16, Issue 1 (3-2023)
Abstract
Professional ethics is based on human values, tasks, rights and responsibilities and affects the professional and organizational conditions of nurses. In this regard, the aim of this study was identifying framework of the dimensions of nurses' professional ethics from the point of view their and physicians. This study was done with qualitative method, using semi-structured interview, with the participation of 26 physicians medical ethics specialist, clinical specialist, clinical assistant and intern and 20 nurses based on theoretical saturation with the purposeful sampling method and after obtaining informed consent from them. Content analysis method was used for data analysis, which was done in MAXQDA version 18 software. Findings showed professional ethics was based on a four-dimensional framework; The professional ethics of nurses in relation to the patient (six sub-components), in relation to colleagues in different job categories (four sub-components), in relation to the profession (three sub-components) and in relation to the hospital and medical organizations (two sub-components). The reliability of the coding of the components was obtained based on the Kappa index equal to 0.88. Therefore, it can be said. Framework of the dimensions professional ethics of the point of view of nurses found meaning in relation to themselves and others (patients, colleagues, organization and profession). The nurses, knowing and observing the details and nature of these communications, as well as the individual rights of these people from their own point of view; they can properly implement the principles of professional ethics in advancing the goals of the organization and increasing the quality of service provision and the satisfaction of others and raising the status of the profession.
Mahshad Noroozi, Ehsan Shamsi Gooshki, Saeedeh Saeedi Tehrani, Fatemeh Bahmani, Mina Forouzandeh, Saeed Biroudian, Nazila Nikravan Fard, Mahshad Goharimehr, Akram Hashemi,
Volume 16, Issue 1 (3-2023)
Abstract
The research activities of developing countries have increased over the last two decades. The expansion and decentralization of ethics committees necessitates appropriate performance evaluation. In 2023, a cross-sectional study was carried out on the Iranian research ethics Committees using the checklist called "Research Ethics Committee Self-Assessment Tool". The checklist was translated into Persian and revised based on the opinions of research ethics experts and the approved “regulation of establishment, grading, and description of duties for research ethics committees”. The electronic checklist was sent to the senior members of 269 research ethics committees. After gathering the data, it was analyzed using SPSS software. The response rate was 83%. The average overall score was 152.11 ± 25.173, or 69.14% of the maximum. The two sections (including continuing review (monitoring) and committee resources received less than 50% of the average score. The 138 research ethics committee scores were excellent and 85 committees were in the good range. The findings revealed that average scores are influenced by activity years, the number of monthly meetings, the presence of an approved annual budget, an approved quality improvement program, and having specific administrative staff. Completing the self-evaluation tool can raise the National Committee authorities' awareness about the adherence of the research ethics committees to the imperative standards. It can also lead to each committee's awareness of its strengths and challenges. Revision of national regulations governing the establishment, grading, and description of committee duties and then future self-evaluation can facilitate upgrading and improving the performance of ethics committees.
Amirhossein Mardani, Maryam Nakhoda, Ehsan Shamsi Gooshki,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Research misconduct cases reviewed by ethics committees serve as a valuable source of data for managing potential future misconduct. This study examines the reported cases within closed research misconduct files of the National Committee for Ethics in Biomedical Research of Iran, aiming to identify common manifestations of misconduct and influential factors across various activities within the research system. Documentation from 100 closed cases reviewed by the National Committee for Ethics in Biomedical Research during 2016 and 2017 was analyzed. A documentary research method and qualitative content analysis were employed. Using a directional analysis approach, the manifestations and factors contributing to misconduct in each case were extracted and categorized. Subsequently, causal relationships between the reported factors were defined. Twenty-one manifestations of research misconduct were identified, most of which involved undesirable micro-level activities, particularly the failure to adhere to ethical standards in research publication. Although negative impacts were observed at the meso level, including issues with research oversight, training in research standards and skills, journal management structures, and administrative and financial structures within universities, macro-level activities and deficiencies in research system performance—such as inadequate investment and financial resource allocation—were not addressed. Twelve causal relationships contributing to research misconduct were identified, highlighting how inadequate performance across different levels of the research system—including administrative structures for research approval and funding, research infrastructure, research evaluation, training, journal management, and oversight mechanisms—can interact and exacerbate misconduct. A key finding was the insufficient reporting of reasons for research misconduct in case documentation. Ethics committees appear to lack significant focus on analyzing the underlying causes of misconduct. Detailed and precise reporting of misconduct reasons, alongside independent studies, would provide decision-makers with valuable insights for preventing future occurrences.
Mahrokh Keshvari, Negar Farajzadeh, Mohsen Shahriari, Mohammad Azadmanesh, Aliasghar Jamalinasab,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Nursing and midwifery professors play a crucial role in transmitting societal norms, providing cultural experiences, shaping students' behavior, beliefs, and attitudes, and cultivating moral virtues. As significant influencers on students' moral development during their academic journey, careful attention to this aspect is essential. This study aimed to elucidate the ethical challenges encountered by faculty members within the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery. This qualitative study employed content analysis. Purposive sampling was utilized to select 23 faculty members from the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, with data collection spanning eight months. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using conventional qualitative content analysis. Continuous and comparative data analysis revealed three primary categories of ethical challenges perceived by faculty members: discrimination and injustice, low professional commitment, and unprofessional behavior.
· Discrimination and injustice: This category encompassed three subcategories: disparities in rule implementation across faculties and groups, unfair financial compensation, and inequitable distribution of academic units and points.
· Low professional commitment: This category included two subcategories: educational underselling and non-adherence to established rules by faculty members.
· Unprofessional behavior: This category comprised two subcategories: unhealthy competition among faculty members and inappropriate student evaluations.
The experiences of faculty members in this study highlighted the presence of numerous challenges, with ethical issues significantly impacting their performance and motivation. The identified ethical challenges primarily revolved around discrimination and injustice, low professional commitment, and unprofessional behavior. Given the pivotal role of faculty members in teaching ethical principles and actively addressing ethical challenges, it is imperative for administrators and officials to acknowledge these concerns and implement strategies to mitigate these issues.
Saeed Biroudian,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Effective oversight of scientific research is essential for ensuring adherence to ethical and legal principles, particularly in medicine and health sciences. This oversight plays a crucial role in maintaining research validity and safeguarding human health. As knowledge-based and technological projects continue to expand, the responsibilities of ethics committees become increasingly significant. Recognized as independent and credible entities, these committees conduct rigorous reviews of research initiatives. This article critically examines the significance, methodologies, and impact of ethics committee oversight on the quality and credibility of scientific research in knowledge-based projects. This study employs a review methodology, synthesizing data from established guidelines and regulatory frameworks governing ethics in biomedical research, as outlined by the National Committee on Ethics in Research of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education. Additionally, a comprehensive review of relevant scientific literature and empirical studies was conducted, focusing on the oversight of approved projects from reputable contemporary sources. The analysis indicates that knowledge-based projects require heightened ethical scrutiny compared to other research initiatives. This necessity arises from the imperative to adhere strictly to ethical standards outlined in research proposals. Rigorous oversight significantly enhances research quality while mitigating ethical violations. Furthermore, active engagement by ethics committees fosters a stronger commitment among researchers to uphold ethical principles. By offering targeted guidance and training, these committees contribute to the development of high-quality research proposals. Effective oversight by ethics committees is instrumental in enhancing the quality and credibility of scientific research, particularly in emerging technologies and knowledge-based projects. This oversight not only reduces ethical infractions but also strengthens public trust in research findings. Therefore, continuous advancements in ethical training and researcher awareness are imperative. Improving oversight mechanisms will further elevate ethical standards and reinforce responsible research practices within this domain.
Amirmohammad Azarakhsh, Mohammadreza Dinmohammadi, Kian Nouroozi Tabrizi, Kowsar Nouri,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly impacted the publication of research articles, transforming the landscape of academic writing and dissemination. However, the integration of AI in this process presents significant ethical challenges that require careful consideration. This review study utilized a comprehensive search strategy, employing keywords such as "artificial intelligence," "publication ethics," "ethical challenges," "academic integrity," and "research dissemination" to identify relevant articles in scientific databases including PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. The search included articles published between 2010 and 2024 in both English and Persian. Research articles, systematic reviews, and case reports that included the specified keywords in their titles and abstracts were selected. A total of 150 articles were screened, and 50 relevant studies were included for detailed analysis. The analysis identified several ethical challenges associated with the use of AI in academic publishing. Concerns regarding academic integrity are paramount, as AI-generated content can blur the lines between original research and automated writing, raising concerns about authorship and plagiarism. Furthermore, the reliance on AI tools for data analysis and manuscript preparation can raise questions about the accuracy and validity of research findings. additionally, the potential for bias embedded within AI algorithms is a significant concern, as it can influence the selection of research topics, the framing of research questions, and even the peer review process. The lack of transparency in AI-driven editorial processes can further undermine trust in academic publishing. This review underscores the urgent need for robust ethical frameworks and regulations to guide the responsible use of AI in academic publishing. Increased awareness and training among researchers and editors regarding the ethical implications of AI are crucial. Interdisciplinary collaborations are essential to address these challenges effectively and ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of academic research in the AI era.
Batool Zeidabadi, Khadijeh Ahmadzadeh, Zeinab Khademi, Reza Sadeghi, Farnoosh Ghomi,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Research ethics is a fundamental component of the scientific process and is crucial for ensuring the integrity and reliability of research outcomes. Researchers must recognize that the results of their studies can impact individuals and societies. Therefore, accountability and transparency in conducting research are of particular importance. Adherence to ethical principles not only enhances the scientific credibility of researchers but also contributes to the advancement of science and technology. This study aimed to assess the level of adherence to research ethical principles among researchers at Iranian Medical Sciences Universities. This descriptive-analytic, cross-sectional study focused on researchers from Iranian universities of medical sciences. The data collection tool was a research ethics compliance questionnaire, which was distributed to researchers at medical universities in Region Eight. The questionnaire contained 40 items across 9 dimensions: respect for subjects' moral rights, free thinking, professional responsibility, social responsibility, accuracy, emotional impartiality, honesty, Originality, and legitimacy. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 24 software. In addition to descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, and Spearman correlation tests were also applied. A total of 230 researchers participated in the study, 193 of whom were faculty members. The results indicated that the average score for adherence to ethical principles in research was 3.174, reflecting a high level of adherence. The results also revealed that the dimensions of legitimacy and accuracy had the highest average scores (21.7 and 22.5, respectively). Significant differences were observed in adherence to ethical principles based on educational degree, academic rank, age, and work experience (p < 0.05). Spearman's correlation indicated a significant inverse relationship between adherence to ethical principles and educational degree, meaning that higher educational levels were associated with lower adherence to ethical principles in research. Overall, the findings of this study show that most researchers in the eight regions of Iranian medical sciences universities adhere to ethical principles in research at a high level.
Fatemeh Hekmatian, Akram Hashemi, Soodabeh Hoveida Manesh, Saeedeh Saeedi Tehrani,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Obtaining informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal right of participants in clinical trials. It ensures that individuals are adequately informed about the research, including its nature, potential risks and benefits, and their role in the study. This knowledge empowers participants to make informed decisions about their involvement. This study aimed to evaluate the awareness of participants regarding the information provided in informed consent forms (ICFs) for clinical trials conducted at Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS) in 2020. This study evaluated the accuracy of the content of ICFs of registered clinical trials and assessed participants' understanding of the information presented. ICFs were reviewed using a ministerial checklist. Participants were subsequently contacted to assess their comprehension of key aspects of the trial as outlined in the ICF. Analysis revealed a discrepancy between the information presented in the ICFs and participants' actual understanding. Despite adequate coverage of certain aspects, such as the research nature of the interventions (98.2%) and the mention of specific benefits (92.7%), significant gaps were observed in participants' comprehension of crucial information. Notably, lower levels of understanding were observed regarding the possibility of invasive interventions (25.7%), the random assignment of participants to study groups and the potential use of placebos (44%), and the possibility of not personally benefiting from the research outcomes (44%). Additionally, only 47.7% of participants reported understanding the confidentiality of their information. These findings highlight the need for improvements in the process of obtaining informed consent. While researchers may adequately address the overall research objectives and potential benefits, crucial aspects such as the potential for invasiveness, randomization procedures, and the possibility of no direct personal benefit may not be adequately communicated to participants. Enhancing participant understanding of these critical aspects is crucial for ensuring truly informed consent and upholding ethical research practices.
Peyman Parvizrad,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Healthcare policy-making and national planning are complex processes that require the integration of ethical principles to ensure fairness, effectiveness, and public trust. This qualitative study explores the key ethical considerations that should guide the development and implementation of healthcare policies and plans. A qualitative research design was utilized, incorporating semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders in the healthcare sector, including policymakers, healthcare providers, and patient representatives. A total of 15 interviews were conducted until data saturation was achieved. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. Thematic analysis identified seven key ethical considerations in healthcare policy-making and planning: (1) Equity and Justice – ensuring equitable access to healthcare regardless of socioeconomic status, race, or other demographic factors; (2) Autonomy and Informed Consent – respecting individual autonomy and ensuring informed decision-making in healthcare interventions; (3) Beneficence – prioritizing actions that maximize benefits and minimize harm; (4) Non-Maleficence – preventing harm to patients and communities; (5) Confidentiality and Privacy – safeguarding patient information and ensuring data protection; (6) Resource Allocation – making fair and justifiable decisions regarding the distribution of limited healthcare resources; and (7) Transparency and Accountability – promoting openness in policy decisions and ensuring accountability for outcomes. Ethical considerations play a critical role in shaping healthcare policies and national planning efforts. By integrating ethical principles into decision-making, policymakers and healthcare providers can foster policies that enhance public well-being, equity, and trust in the healthcare system. A structured ethical framework can help ensure that healthcare policies align with societal values and promote justice in health service delivery.
Zahra Kazempour, Hasan Ashrafi-Rizi, Mohammadreza Hashemian,
Volume 17, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
The ethics of reviewing scientific works is a crucial aspect of research ethics in the field of health, where the outcomes significantly impact prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and management, highlighting the importance of the quality of research results. Accordingly, this study aimed to develop a charter for the ethical peer review of scientific works in the field of health. The significance of this commentary lies in that researchers’ and reviewers’ adherence to ethical principles can contribute to enhancing the quality of scientific works aimed at prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and management in the field of health. This charter can serve as a framework for scientific work review systems, assisting research managers in identifying the ethical components essential for reviewing scientific works in the field of health to develop effective research policies and plans. Moreover, it would help reviewers and practitioners at journals, research centers, and institutes, facilitating accurate, fair, and unbiased reviews of scientific works in the field of health.
Amirhossein Mardani, Maryam Nakhoda, Ehsan Shamsi Gooshki,
Volume 17, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Since research misconduct can be considered as an adaptive reaction against the limitations, pressures, and demands arising from inappropriate functions of the research system, to manage it, the activities of the research system should be investigated and traced during the path of transferring research policies (macro level) to research development programs in institutions (meso level) and research implementation by researchers (micro level). By introducing the macro-meso-micro analytical framework, this study clarified the tasks, strategies, and activities formed at three levels of the research system of medical sciences in Iran; from macro policies of research (macro) to operational plans for the development of research in universities and research centers (meso) and researchers as research conductors (micro). For this purpose, three analytical levels of the research system were explained and defined according to the assumptions of this framework. By performing a qualitative content analysis of the relevant texts, those activities that could be useful at different levels to support the research integrity were identified and presented as different strategies. The results showed that the research system, based on the existing analytical framework, is not seen as a mere macro-system without regard to the interaction of its parts, but rather a system in which there is cross-sectional influence and interaction among the components. This approach can improve the focus, clarity, and capability to study research misconduct, and by using micro, meso, and macro levels, it can trace challenges in the interactive path of various activities and functions of the research system and their intertwining.
Rahele Samouei, D Farzane Mohammadi-Sefiddashti, Narges Meshkineh, Mostafa Amini-Rarani ,
Volume 17, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
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
Mitra Bahrami, Mohadeseh Shaygan Jamal, Maryam Afshari, Omid Najm Roshan,
Volume 17, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Research ethics is a branch of professional ethics that deals with the ethical principles guiding the research process from the beginning to the end. Ignoring ethical issues in research sometimes occurs unintentionally and simply due to a lack of awareness regarding professional research ethics. Therefore, this study aimed to identify facilitators and inhibitors of adherence to ethics in research conducted by postgraduate students at Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. This qualitative study was conducted using an inductive content analysis approach. The target population included postgraduate students at Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 29 students who were selected using purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using the method proposed by Diekelmann et al. For data validation, Strauss and Corbin’s method was utilized. Factors influencing adherence to research ethics included individual and personality traits (accuracy and ethical conduct of students and professors and having sufficient information about research ethics) and environmental factors (information dissemination and familiarity with research methods, the professors’ interactions with students, confidentiality of information, strictness of professors, having a clear framework from the university, respecting students’ rights, and establishing deterrent regulations). Strengthening facilitators and mitigating inhibitors of adherence to research ethics requires joint efforts from students, professors, and the university. Students need to develop accuracy and awareness, and professors should serve as ethical role models. University officials are required to create and propose clear frameworks for adhering to ethics, to be followed by all individuals involved in research.
Soudabeh Mehdizadeh, Ehsan Shamsi Gooshki,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2025)
Abstract
The Declaration of Helsinki, as a fundamental document of ethics in medical research involving human participants, has been periodically revised since its adoption in accordance with theoretical and scientific advancements, emerging ethical issues in research, and the experiences gained over time. In the latest revision completed in 2024, significant changes and amendments have been made. This study examined the changes and revisions made in the latest version of the declaration in comparison to its previous version from 2013. Fundamental revisions in the recent update include a requirement for adherence to ethical principles in research not only by physicians but also by other researchers, the replacement of “subject” with “participant,” and the emphasis on the voluntary nature of informed consent. Attention to environmental sustainability, precise design to prevent research waste, and a focus on scientific integrity are among the other amendments in the new revision of this declaration. Other modifications and revisions made in the recent edition include the promotion of individual and public health as the ultimate purpose of research, the provision of sufficient resources for research ethics committees and strengthening their independence, the importance of local ethical review, consideration of the preferences and values of participants who are unable to provide voluntary and informed consent, and the necessity of adhering to the ethical principles of the declaration during public health crises and emergencies. Given the changes made, it is recommended that the national ethical guidelines for medical research involving human participants in Iran be revised based on the 2024 revisions.
Rahele Samouei, Shokoofeh Samouei, Narges Meshkineh ,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2025)
Abstract
Faculty members and researchers bear the greatest responsibility for producing scientific research outputs due to the nature of their profession and mission. Given the role of ethical principles in ensuring evidence-based research, their impact on research utilization in society, and the importance of scientific evaluations, this study was conducted to design and psychometrically evaluate a questionnaire on factors related to unethical research practices among researchers. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 among faculty members and researchers at medical sciences universities in Iran. Based on a preliminary qualitative study, 40 items were initially generated for the questionnaire. The validity of the questionnaire was assessed through face validity, content validity (CVR, CVI), and criterion validity (divergent and convergent). Besides, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and reliability testing (Cronbach's alpha) were performed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient, and Student's t-test. During the content validity assessment, 11 researchers evaluated the items. Applying cutoff scores of 0.59 for CVR and 0.79 and above for CVI, 16 out of 40 items were removed, retaining 24 items. Exploratory factor analysis revealed five key factors, including “researchers’ irresponsible and unprofessional behaviors and beliefs”, “inefficient basis for competition and career advancement among researchers”, “lack of awareness and up-to-date knowledge among researchers”, “inefficient organizational culture and policies”, and “lack of supervision over researchers and research”. Descriptive findings indicated significant differences in the mean scores of factors associated with unethical research practices of researchers by gender (P=0.002) and organizational position (P=0.004), but not by education level. The findings from this study confirmed the strong psychometric properties of the questionnaire on factors related to unethical research practices.
