Research ethics

The journal “Actual Problems of Mind” recognizes the primacy of ethical standards in research involving human participants, the use of biological materials, the involvement of animals, or the processing of personal or confidential data. All materials submitted to the Editorial Office must comply with the current legislation of Ukraine, including laws concerning the protection of human rights, personal data protection, and animal welfare, as well as with relevant international ethical guidelines.

The processing of personal data must comply with the Law of Ukraine “On Personal Data Protection” and, where applicable, the provisions of the GDPR. Personal data must be de-identified or anonymized. Authors are required to describe the measures taken to protect information and the conditions of access to it. In cases where research involves sensitive data (including worldview, religious, or political beliefs), authors must give particular attention to the ethical aspects of collecting, storing, and using such information.

In cases where research involves human participants (including surveys, interviews, experimental or observational methods), authors must confirm that approval was obtained from a duly authorized ethics committee (where such approval is required by law or institutional regulations). Authors must confirm that informed consent was obtained voluntarily, without coercion, and in a form understandable to the participants. The publication of personal data or materials that enable the identification of an individual without that individual’s written consent is strictly prohibited.

If ethical violations are identified after publication, the journal may undertake appropriate editorial actions — ranging from the publication of a correction or an expression of concern to the retraction of the article. Decisions are made in accordance with COPE recommendations and the journal’s internal procedures.