9.1.15 - Ethical issues in research using humans

Question 1

What are the 4 core principles of the BPS code of ethics and conduct?

Answer 1

Respect:
+ Informed consent
+ Confidentiality
+ Right to withdraw

Responsibility:
+ Protection from harm
+ Debriefing

Integrity:
+ Honesty (no deception)
+ Addressing misconduct

Competence:
Awareness of professional ethics and making ethical decisions

Question 2

Define the principle of Respect. (3 points)

Answer 2

Researchers need to gain consent (either informed or presumptive) for each participant to partake in research

Psychologists must maintain confidentiality of the participant’s identity
E.g. use pseudonyms, and ensure the privacy of participants by not undertaking research in their homes

Respect must be shown to participants by giving them the right to withdraw from research at any time they wish

Question 3

Define the principle of Responsibility. (3 points)

Answer 3

It is the researchers’ responsibility to protect participants from harm - they should leave the study in the same physical and psychological state in which they arrived at the study

Psychologists need to provide a risk assessment before designing and implementing a study

This is to ensure researchers, confederates and participants are all safe and there are no foreseeable adverse effects from the study

Question 4

Define the principle of Integrity. (3 points)

Answer 4

Acting with honesty and fairness

Researchers often look to deceive participants from the true aim of the study to remove demand characteristics

A comprehensive debrief, stating the true aims and purpose of the study must be given

Question 5

Define the principle of Competence.

Answer 5

The psychologists being able carry out the research and weigh up the cost and benefits of the research