Academic misconduct in health-related sciences a comprehensive literature review

Academic dishonesty is prevalent in the health services. Dishonest academic behavior is a predictor of unprofessional behavior in clinical practice. This is important as it could lead to patient harm and a loss in confidence in the profession. Review of the literature suggests that attitudes towards dishonesty have become lax, suggesting a reason as to why it has generally become more acceptable. Technology is a double-edged sword which has improved access to resources for dishonest behavior, but which has also brought advances in the field of detection. The only factor demonstrated to strongly indicate a group at risk of cheating was the male gender. Recommendations on how to detect, manage and prevent academic dishonesty, and the formative role of teachers play in nurturing honesty in students have been explored. There is a need to determine if findings are reproducible in a wider variety of environments and cultures. Based on review of the current literature, we propose a template for minimizing academic dishonesty, as a basis for adaptation and further evaluation.