C2b1 The ethics of psychological research

Question 1

The main ethical guidelines

Answer 1

1) Consent
2) Right to withdraw
3) Deception
4) Debrief
5) Competence
6) Protection of participants

Question 2

Protection of participants

Answer 2

looking after the rights and welfare of participants to ensure no physical or psychological damage

Question 3

Consent

Answer 3

Permission to take part in a study. Psychologists should try to fully inform participants about the nature and aim of the study.

Question 4

Right to withdraw

Answer 4

a participant’s right to leave a study at any time and their ability to do so

Question 5

Deception

Answer 5

being lied to

Question 6

Debrief

Answer 6

being told the truth about a study when it is over

Question 7

Competence

Answer 7

A researcher’s ability to conduct a study

Question 8

How can participants be protected?

Answer 8

1) make sure all risk and harm is identified and minimized
2) Psychologists should seek advice from colleagues about risks identified
3) inform participants about any risks
4) Counselling/ other services offered to participants if they’ve been affected by study. There should be a followup of all participants to ensure they did not suffer long-term damage
5) reassure participants that their participation is confidential and that they have been of great value