E2b2 Gathering information from convicted offenders

Question 1

Practical problems with gathering information from convicted offenders

Answer 1

1) they may use the research as ways of gaining early release from prison by telling psychologists they are sorry for their crimes/ underplaying crimes- may lead to dishonest results
2) they might glorify crimes to make themselves feel more important- leads to useless study findings
3) they might feel guilty and be uncomfortable talking about what they have done
4) may believe that info could be used to convict someone else, and that they might get back at them- distress
5) might withhold info to protect themselves, families or criminal groups

Question 2

Ethical problems with gathering information from convicted offenders

Answer 2

1) criminals shouldn’t be treated any different from other participants
2) they have the same rights as anyone else
3) should have right to withdraw, have privacy respected and to be debriefed, shouldn’t be put at risk of harm or distress
4) they may feel guilty about crimes and feel uncomfortable talking about them
5) may believe that info could be used to convict someone else, and that they might get back at them- distress