Ethical implications of research studies and theories

Question 1

Describe what ethical implications are in psychology.

Answer 1

Scientists have a responsibility for the way their research is used. Important to consider consequences/effects of psychological research on all scales. Balance between rights of Ps and usefulness of research to society.

Question 2

Define socially sensitive research.

Answer 2

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

Question 3

What is an example of the ethical implications of research studies.

Answer 3

Zimbardo. Deception, lack of informed consent, risk of psychological and possibly physical harm for Ps. But showed public that good people can behave badly and informed prisons on what were healthy conditions.

Question 4

What is an example of ethical implications of theories?

Answer 4

Bowlby. Contributed to development of childcare practices. Potentially made mothers feel obliged to stay at home - sense of guilt when returning to work.

Question 5

What are the 4 aspects of psychological research that may have social ethical consequences?

Answer 5

Research question (adding scientific validity to orejudice)
Conducting research and treatment of participants
Institutional context (misuse or misunderstanding of data)
Interpretation and application of findings (data used in ways not intended)

Question 6

List ethical issues in socially sensitive research.

Answer 6

Informed consent
Deception
Right to withdraw
Protection from physical and psychological harm
Confidentiality
Privacy

Question 7

(AO3) Explain how research can disadvantage marginalised groups.

Answer 7

Appearing to add scientific credibility to prejudice and societal stereotypes. ‘Bell curve research’ found intelligence as most important factor in trajectory in ones life. Correlation between intelligence and socioeconomic status. Gave platform for modern-day racism due to the ‘intellectual basis’ for the belief that investment in education of minorities is a waste of resources.

Question 8

(AO3) Describe ethical guidelines in psychology.

Answer 8

Strict guidelines for research methodology and procedures. Focus on direct impact of research on participants, but not the ways in which research may be used. Means research that is passed by guidelines could have impacts on certain groups in society. Shows that ethical issues still need development to control external consequences of research.

Question 9

(AO3) Why should socially sensitive research not necessarily be avoided?

Answer 9

If psychologists don’t conduct research on homosexuality, race, gender, addiction etc. due to implications, nothing apart from unimportant issues will be studied. Avoiding such research is inappropriate - avoiding sensitive topics is an avoidance of responsibility. Therefore there is a duty to complete sensitive research, but control how it is used.

Question 10

(AO3) How do researchers ensure their findings are not used inappropriately - especially in policy making?

Answer 10

BPS has little role in controlling how research is used, so it is down to the individual. Promoting research in a socially sensitive way (avoid unethical misuse). E.g. proving contextual explanations for how and why the findings have occurred. Should avoid misinterpretation of the results or misuse of findings - especially in policy making which systematically effects sectors of the population.