GGSR does not accept the presentation of another person’s words, ideas, findings, data, images, or other intellectual work as the authors’ own. Attribution must make the relationship to the source clear. Obtaining permission, where required, is a separate responsibility from citing the source.

Attribution in writing and analysis

Verbatim text requires quotation marks or a clearly marked quotation, with a source and location where available. Paraphrasing requires both acknowledgement and an independent expression of the source’s idea; replacing a few words or rearranging sentences does not establish original authorship.

Translations, adapted figures, conceptual frameworks, coding instruments, and source-derived datasets also require acknowledgement. Authors should distinguish their own analysis from an institutional report or a participant’s explanation, even where the source is freely accessible online.

Reuse of an author’s earlier work

Disclose and cite relevant earlier publications and public versions. Reuse may be acceptable when it is necessary, accurately identified, and consistent with rights and the manuscript’s original contribution. Concealed recycling of substantial text or findings can mislead readers about novelty and may constitute redundant publication. Explain overlap in the submission information and provide the related work for assessment.

Assessment of overlap

Similarity screening, where used, informs editorial assessment. A numerical score alone does not establish plagiarism or its absence. Editors consider what overlaps, where it occurs, whether it is attributed, and its significance for the argument. References, legitimate quotations, conventional terminology, and accurately disclosed prior dissemination require contextual judgement.

Concerns and responses

Authors may be asked to explain overlap and supply source material. The response depends on the extent, significance, and publication stage and may include revision, rejection, correction, or retraction. Serious concerns may require contact with a responsible institution. Reports should identify matching passages or material and the original source rather than rely solely on a similarity percentage.

See Duplicate Publication and Citation Ethics.