Study on the Formation Process and Influencing Factors of Data Ethical Misconduct by Researchers

Abstract: [Objective] This paper analyzes the formation process and influencing factors of data ethical misconduct of scientific researchers in the process of data processing and analysis, aiming at revealing the patterns of formation of ethical misconduct, and providing theoretical support for the improvement of research ethics guidelines and optimization of scientific research management. [Method] Based on the grounded theory analysis of mixed data from 25 semi structured interview texts and related online topic texts, this paper constructs a model of the formation process and influencing factors of data ethical misconduct behavior of scientific researchers. [Conclusions] Data ethics cognition forms the foundation for researchers’ ethical judgment and adherence to normative standards. Researchers’ ethical decision-making entails a dynamic interplay between deontological and teleological considerations: under conditions of clear norms and robust oversight, deontological imperatives lead to “norm internalization,” whereas in intensely competitive resource environments, teleologically driven ethical misconduct may occur. The resonance between the structural contradictions of contextual factors and immediate situational pressures facilitates the transformation of macro-level institutional deficiencies into micro-level ethical deviations. Self-regulation and external controls serve as dual defensive mechanisms, although their effectiveness is contingent upon contextual support.