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Instruments lacking comprehensive validation dominate research on researcher behavior: a scoping review based on the
Arthur Thives Mello1, Dayanne da Silva Borges1, Giovanna Mozzaquattro Nascimento1
1Post-Graduate Program in Nutrition, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
Journal of Clinical Epidemiology
|June 25, 2025
Summary
Many instruments measure researcher capability, motivation, and opportunity, but most lack validation. Further development of these tools is crucial for reliable meta-research and strengthening scientific integrity.
Area of Science:
- Meta-research
- Behavioral Science
- Research Integrity
Background:
- Understanding researcher behavior is key to improving scientific transparency and reliability.
- The capability, opportunity, motivation, and behavior (COM-B) model is a framework used to assess factors influencing behavior.
- Existing instruments for measuring COM-B components in research settings often lack robust validation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map and present available information on instruments measuring capability, opportunity, and motivation in researcher behavior studies.
- To critically evaluate the measurement properties of instruments used in meta-research.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review following Joanna Briggs Institute guidance.
- Systematic searches of major databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest).
- Data extraction by two independent researchers and charting of study and instrument characteristics against the COM-B model.
- Overview of measurement properties using the COSMIN taxonomy.
Main Results:
- Sixteen studies were included, featuring diverse participants and research contexts.
- A wide array of instruments were identified for measuring capability, opportunity, and motivation.
- Most instruments had limited investigation of measurement properties, and existing validated tools were often overlooked.
Conclusions:
- Numerous approaches exist to measure capability, motivation, and opportunity, but many lack rigorous validation, potentially leading to research waste.
- There is a critical need for adaptation and further validation of promising existing instruments.
- Developing stronger, shared, and validated tools is essential for advancing behavioral studies in meta-research and enhancing the quality of science.
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