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Research Objective

To investigate the prevalence, motivations, and ethical considerations of self-citation among researchers in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, and to assess its impact on citation metrics and visibility.

Methodology

A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative analysis of 200 research articles with qualitative insights from in-depth interviews with 20 faculty members. Quantitative data included self-citation rates, overall citation counts, h-indexes, years since first publication, and number of publications. Qualitative data explored motivations, ethical considerations, disciplinary norms, and strategies for self-citation.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A["Quantitative Data Collection: 200 Research Articles"] --> B["Bibliometric Database Analysis"];
    C["Qualitative Data Collection: 20 Faculty Interviews"] --> D["Thematic Analysis of Interviews"];
    B --> E["Quantitative Analysis"];
    D --> F["Qualitative Analysis"];
    E --> G["Identify Predictors of Self-Citation"];
    F --> H["Identify Themes: Motivations, Ethics, Norms, Strategies"];
    G --> I["Integrate Findings"];
    H --> I;
    I --> J["Discussion and Conclusion"];                    

Discussion

Self-citation is used to enhance academic metrics and professional advancement, impacting career decisions. It also helps maintain research continuity and establish a scholarly narrative. Ethical concerns arise from the potential for manipulation, with acceptability varying by discipline and peer influence. Disciplinary norms and career stages influence self-citation strategies, with early-career researchers potentially using it more to establish their presence. Researchers employ selective self-citation and balance it with other sources to maintain rigor and integrity.

Key Findings

Self-citation rates varied significantly across disciplines, with a mean rate of 15.2%. Overall citation count, h-index, and the number of publications were significant predictors of self-citation rates, while years since the first publication showed no significant effect. Motivations for self-citation included professional advancement and knowledge continuity. Ethical concerns about overuse were tempered by discipline-specific norms and career stage pressures.

Conclusion

Self-citation is a complex practice with strategic benefits for professional advancement and knowledge continuity, but it requires careful consideration of ethical implications to maintain academic integrity. A balanced approach is necessary, considering both strategic advantages and potential ethical issues.

Fact Check

1. The study analyzed 200 research articles. (Confirmed in Methodology section)
2. The mean self-citation rate found was 15.2%. (Confirmed in Key Findings and Table 1)
3. Overall citation count, h-index, and number of publications were significant predictors of self-citation rates. (Confirmed in Key Findings and Table 2)

Mind Map