Plagiarism & Other Scientific Misconduct

Disclaimer:  This post is NOT a commentary on the recent situation at an educational institution.  That is their business and issue.  This writer is discussing the topic of BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, the reporting of scientific results, and acknowledging (i.e., citing sources) of research.

It would be remiss not to discuss this incredibly important topic!

After the research is performed, the results have to be reported accurately, naming all of the participants in the study (i.e., all of those involved in conducting the research).  The results, after using scientific instruments to measure the information, have to be reported as they are and not skewed in any form.  The results, whatever they are, are valuable information for the public to gain awareness on the subject.

Intentionally inaccurate reporting of findings can result in reputations in tatters, future grants no longer available (i.e., jeopardized because of the lack of trust), and more importantly, the risk of harm to the public.

When using the vocabulary from other research (whether from current findings or earlier ones), the writer has to cite those researchers in-text and in the reference listings.

Finally, it’s one thing to discuss a topic thoroughly in a narrative as though you’re speaking to someone in person.  The reader can tell that the writer has a strong knowledge of the subject.  It’s quite another to lift someone’s thoughts and use them as your own.  The reader can tell the writer lacks a strong knowledge of the subject.

Vikki