Ethical Implications of Research Studies and Theory

Question 1

Ethical Implications

Answer 1

• Arise when there is conflict between psychologists who need to gain valid and valuable data whilst keeping p free from harm, well informed and privacy protected
• Ethical guidelines from BPS and APA were established to protect rights and dignity of p. Difficult to guard against SOCIAL IMPACT of psychological research once conducted.
• Despite psychologists attempting to exercise control over research methods and way they treat p, may have little control over how research findings and represented or misrepresented in the media
• Impact their work has on public policy or how may influence groups in society
• Issues all have ethical implications

Question 2

Socially Sensitive Research

Answer 2

• Some areas of research are controversial and need to be carefully considered - research into genetic basis of criminality
• Any research for which topic area can be regarded as emotionally sensitive such as Bowlby research on attachment - used to justify why women should stay at home and look after children
• Other areas investigate taboo, socially sensitive areas include race and sexuality
• Just because these areas are sensitive should not lead psychologists to abstain from researching them otherwise our psychological knowledge would not advance
• One may suggest that psychologists have a social responsibility to conduct such research

Question 3

Privacy

Answer 3

• Some research may lead to social policies that are an invasion of peoples private lives - Aids research and compulsory HIV testing

Question 4

Deception

Answer 4

• Causing wider public to believe something untrue by findings you report such as parents totally responsible for how their children turn out

Question 5

Confidentiality

Answer 5

• Questions sometimes reveal information of a sensitive nature - sexual habits or drug use
• If breached, p less likely to divulge info in future and future research compromised

Question 6

Valid Methodology