Ethical implications of research studies & theory Flashcards
State the definition of Socially sensitive research
Any research that might have direct social consequences for the participants in research or group they represent
What is the research process at which ethical issues with social consequences may occur
- The research question
- Conduct of research & treatment of participants
- The institutional context
- Interpretation & application of findings
What is the research question?
- Ask simple research question
e.g ‘Are there racial difference in IQ?’
What is the conduct of research & treatment of participants?
- Main concern = confidentiality of the info collected
e.g if participant confesses a crime, should it be confidentially maintained?
What is the institutional context?
- Research may be funded & managed by private institutions - who may misuse/misunderstand data produced ( All Trial campaign )
- Media may obtain reports of such research & misreport the findings
What is the Interpretation & application of findings?
- Research findings may be used for different purposes than intended
e.g iq test used to demonstrate inferiority of certain groups of people
What are the ethical issues in socially sensitive research?
- Privacy
- Confidentiality
- Valid methodology
- Deception
- Informed consent
- Equitable treatment
- Scientific freedom
- Ownership of data
- Values
- Risk/benefit ratio
During research process, skilled investigator may extract more info from participants.
Some research may lead to social policies that are invasion of peoples ….. life
Privacy
How is confidentiality an ethical issue
participants may be less willing to divulge info in future if confidentiality is breached
How is valid methodology an ethical issue in socially sensitive research
Poor studies may shape important social policy to detriment of those groups represented by the research
How is deception an ethical issue in socially sensitive research
may lead to form untrue stereotypes/answers
may affect owns performance
How is informed confirmed consent an ethical issue in socially sensitive research
potential participants may not always comprehend what is involved
How is Equitable treatment an ethical issue in socially sensitive research
- All participants should be treated in an equitable manner
- Equal treatment = vital to participants well being
How is Scientific freedom an ethical issue in socially sensitive research
A scientist has a duty to engage in research - but can’t harm participants
How is Ownership of data an ethical issue in socially sensitive research
Some problems with determining ownership involve sponsorship of research & public accessibility of the data
