You Put my name, I Put your name: exploring unethical practices in academic publishing using the authorship misappropriation Diamond framework

Abstract

Authorship malpractice is increasingly normalised in global academia, yet its institutional and behavioural drivers remain underexplored, particularly in resource-constrained systems. This study examines the phenomenon locally termed “You Put My Name, I Put Your Name” within the Nigerian academic context. Using qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 18 lecturers, the findings identify five patterns: transactional authorship, promotion-driven padding, hierarchical patronage, reciprocal name-exchange, and unauthorised inclusion. These practices are shaped by promotion pressures, structural opportunities, cultural rationalisations, and power asymmetries. Three overarching themes emerge: uneven awareness of authorship standards, systemic institutional and financial drivers, and entrenched hierarchical dynamics. The study introduces the Authorship Misappropriation Diamond (AMD), extending the Fraud Diamond by adding “Normalisation” to explain how repeated misconduct becomes institutionalised, increasing pressure and reducing ethical resistance. The model offers a comprehensive framework for understanding, measuring, and addressing authorship misconduct across academic systems.