The effect of perceived benefits on neuroimaging researchers’ data sharing intention: an empirical investigation

Purpose With the significant increase in the volume of neuroimaging data, data sharing has gradually become a common practice. Drawing on social exchange theory and institutional theory, this study explored the relationship between perceived benefits and data sharing intention among neuroimaging researchers, with a focus on the mediating role of institutional norms and the moderating role of trust in this process. Design/methodology/approach We assessed a cohort of 618 neuroimaging researchers using various scales. The data were subjected to analysis via Pearson’s correlations and moderated mediation analysis. Findings The results revealed that: (1) Significant positive correlations were found among perceived benefits, institutional norms, data sharing intention, and trust. (2) Institutional norms mediated the relationship between perceived benefits and data sharing intention. (3) Trust moderated the relationship between perceived benefits and data sharing intention, as well as the relationship between institutional norms and data sharing intention. Specifically, the effect of perceived benefits on data sharing intention was stronger for neuroimaging researchers with low levels of trust, while the effect of institutional norms on data sharing intention was stronger for those with high levels of trust. Originality/value This study revealed the underlying mechanisms between perceived benefits and data sharing intention for neuroimaging researchers, offering significant implications for promoting the practice of data sharing.