Consequences of Whistleblowing for the Whistleblower in Misconduct in Science 

Research Triangle Institute May92

Research Triangle Institute
Research Triangle Park NC 27709 

ABSTRACT: Whistleblowers in scientific misconduct cases are highly likely to experience one or more negative consequences as a result of their whistleblowing. This report presents the results of a mail survey of those individuals listed in the Office of Research Integrity (ORI) files as having made allegations of scientific misconduct. Only those individuals involved in closed cases were contacted for the study. Of the 127 individuals eligible to be surveyed, 105 whistleblowers were located and mailed a survey. Of these, 89 responded, of whom 68 completed the surveys. Survey results show that:

1) most whistle- blowers believe that the negative consequences they have experienced as a result of their actions have had a neutral impact on their careers, professional activities, and personal lives; 

(2) 69 percent of the respondents report experiencing at least one or more negative outcomes, while 31 percent experienced none; 

(3) 25 percent report serious consequences, such as the loss of position or denial of tenure, promotions, or salary increases; 

(4) whistle-blowers attribute negative consequences to institutional officials, respondents, colleagues, and professional societies; 

(5) most consequences were experienced during the response to the allegations and after the inquiry is completed; and 

(6) despite the negative consequences cited, 68 percent of respondents said they would make another allegation, 10 percent were uncertain, and 10 percent would not. (Final report 61 pages plus appendices.) 

DESCRIPTORS: Biomedical Research Clinical Research Fraud and Abuse Research or Scientific Training STUDY TYPES: Research and Data Development ENTRY DATE: 96-10 STATUS: CFN PROJECT OFFICER: Rhoades, Lawrence J., Ph.D. ADDRESS: Rm 700, RKWL2 Bldg PHONE: 301-443-5300 SPONSOR FY FUND SOURCE MECHANISM COST AMOUNT PHS-OASH 1993 Evaluation Contract 17 PHS-OASH 1994 Evaluation Contract 35 PHS-OASH 1995 Evaluation Contract 33 PROJECT NO: OASH 93-900 CONTRACT/GRANT NO: 282-95-0045 NTIS NO: PB 96-200449 ERIC NO: PIC Only

source: http://waisgate.hhs.gov/cgi-bin/waisgate?WAISdocID=907686229+0+0+0&WAISaction=retrieve 12jul01