Data withholding in genetics and the other life sciences: prevalences and predictors
David Blumenthal1, Eric G Campbell, Manjusha Gokhale
1Institute for Health Policy, Massachusetts General Hospital/Partners HealthCare System, 50 Staniford St., Boston, MA 02114, USA. dblumenthal@partners.org
Summary
Data withholding is prevalent in genetics and life sciences, influenced by personal factors and training. Encouraging early career openness may improve data sharing, though formal training effects are complex.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Life Sciences
- Biomedical Science
Background:
- Data withholding is a recognized issue in scientific research.
- Understanding its prevalence and influencing factors is crucial for promoting data sharing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the variety and prevalence of data withholding in genetics and other life sciences.
- To identify factors associated with data withholding behaviors among researchers.
Main Methods:
- Survey conducted in 2000 with 2,893 geneticists and other life scientists (OLS) at top US universities.
- Assessed withholding in verbal exchanges and during the publishing process.
- Analyzed associations with personal, research, and experiential variables.
Main Results:
- 64% response rate (1,849 faculty); 44% of geneticists and 32% of OLS reported data withholding.
- Publishing withholding was more common than verbal withholding.
- Male gender, industry relationships, mentor influence, formal training, and negative sharing experiences were associated with withholding.
Conclusions:
- Data withholding is common and multifaceted in biomedical science.
- Investigator characteristics and training influence withholding behaviors.
- Promoting openness in early career stages is key, but formal training impact is not straightforward.
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