Ethical implications

Question 1

Ethical Implications

Social Sensitivity

Description + Topic Link

Answer 1

• Some areas of study have greater social sensitivity than others.
• In memory research, the participants and wider social groups are unlikely to be affected by the outcomes of the study and it’s unlikely to negatively affect social policy.
• In contrast, depression studies may reveal personal information of participants, or affect external people with depression.
• Employers may not hire those with depression because research findings show they are a risk as an employee.

Question 2

Ethical Implications

Implications on the Research Process

Answer 2

• Researchers need to ensure careful planning has gone into conducting studies.
• The way research questions are phrase may influence the outcome or interpretation of results.
• Socially sensitive research has to ensure that informed consent is acquired and risk of psychological harm is minimised (e.g. studies on domestic abuse).
• Finally, researchers have to consider the potential consequences of the results, such as research findings that could fuel existing prejudices (e.g. early IQ testing on ethnic groups).

Question 3

Ethical Implications: Evaluation

Benefits for Groups

Strength

Answer 3

• Socially sensitive research can have benefits to the groups that are studied.
• For example, in the DSM-1 homosexuality was classified as ‘sociopathic personality disorder’ in the 1950s.
• It was removed in 1973 due to the Kinsey report which concluded that homosexuality is a typical expression of human sexual behaviour.
• The study caused outrage at the time because it wasn’t a topic anyone discussed.

This illustrates the importance of researchers tackling topics that are sensitive.

Question 4

Ethical Implications: Evaluation

Negative Consequences

Counterpoint - limitation

Answer 4

• Socially sensitive research has had negative consequences for groups of people.
• Research investigating the genetic basis of criminality found there is a ‘criminal gene’ which could lead to prejudice against those that are known to have that gene.

This shows researchers need to take careful consideration when conducting and publishing research because it could have negative effects.

Question 5

Ethical Implications: Evaluation

Poor Research Design

Limitation

Answer 5

• Poor research design can lead to erroneous findings that could have a lasting impact.
• For example, the 11+ was formed based on research that was proven to be fraudulent but it is still used in parts of the UK.
• Access to independent schools is limited based on the child’s performance on this entrance exam taken in Year 6.

Therefore, socially sensitive research needs to be planned carefully because it could have enduring effects on groups of people.