ethical implications

Question 1

socially sensitive research

Answer 1

studies in which there are potential consequences or implications, either directly for the participants in the research, or for the class of individuals represented by the research

Question 2

4 aspects of research process where ethical issues with social consequences may occur

Answer 2

the research question
conduct of research and treatment of participants
the institutional context
interpretation and application of finding

Question 3

the inadequacy of current ethical guide lines

Answer 3

ethical guidelines may protect the immediate needs of research participants, but may not deal with all the possible ways in which research might be used by others, therefore the considerations outlines some years ago have not yet permeated into professional practice

Question 4

ignore ssr?

Answer 4

leave psychologists to examine nothing but unimportant issues
not a responsible approach to science

Question 5

benefits of ssr

Answer 5

Scarr argues that studies of underrepresented groups and issues may promote greater sensitivity and understanding
can help reduce pre-judgice and encourage acceptance
plays valuable role in society

Question 6

how to deal with SSR

Answer 6

submit research proposals to ethical committes
weigh up a cost/benefit analysis
take steps to avoid prejudice and misrepresentation of findings

Question 7

against SSR

Answer 7

Flawed research has been used to dictate social policy and put certain groups at a disadvantage.

Research has been used to discriminate against groups in society, such as the sterilization of people in the USA between 1910 and 1920 because they were of low intelligence, criminal, or suffered from psychological illness.

The guidelines used by psychologists to control SSR lack power and, as a result, are unable to prevent indefensible research from being carried out.