Open access (OA) publishing behavior of university faculty members from the perspective of decomposed theory of planned behavior (DTPB)

Purpose Open access (OA) has emerged as a modern academic publishing paradigm that strives to provide all members of society with free access to scholarly knowledge. This study aims to assess the behavior of faculty members to publish in OA journals from the perspective of the decomposed theory of planned behavior (DTPB). Design/methodology/approach A quantitative survey research design based on a cross-sectional survey approach was applied to investigate the phenomenon. The data were collected through a structured questionnaire from 338 faculty members of two large universities in Pakistan. Findings The findings of the study indicate that behavioral intentions ( β = 0.664, p < 0.01), subjective norms ( β = 0.159, p < 0.01) and perceived behavioral control ( β = 0.238, p < 0.01) positively while attitude toward behavior negatively affected the actual behavior of the university faculty members to publish in OA journals. Research limitations/implications The study offers theoretical implications for researchers and practical implications for educational authorities, policymakers and funding agencies. Originality/value The study fills the literature gap and offers insight into the OA publishing behavior of academicians from the perspective of DTPB.