To Collaborate or Not: Researchers’ Intention for International Research Collaboration: The Theory of Planned Behavior

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Abstract

According to Ajzen's Theory of Planned Behavior, individuals’ behavioral intentions are shaped by their attitudes toward the behavior, perceived social norms, perceptions of how much control they have over the behavior, and self-efficacy. This study applies this theory to unpack researchers’ experiences and intentions concerning international research collaboration (IRC). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 47 researchers working at universities in Türkiye: 24 with IRC experience and 23 without. The data were analyzed to explore the psychological factors influencing collaboration decisions. Findings align with the theory’s core constructs: attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, and self-efficacy. These constructs were experienced differently by researchers with and without IRC experience, shedding light on how internal and external factors influence engagement in international collaboration.

Authors

• Anıl Ersöz, Middle East Technical University

• Pelin Yuce, Middle East Technical University

• Sevgi Kaya Kaşıkcı, Middle East Technical University

• Yasar Kondakci, Middle East Technical University

• Merve Zayim-Kurtay, Middle East Technical University