ID - Ethical Implications

Question 1

What is socially-sensitive research?

Answer 1

Research that might have direct social consequences for the participants or the community (group/class) that it represents

Question 2

What are the consequences of socially sensitive research?

Answer 2

It may be seen as giving ‘scientific’ justification for prejudice and discrimination

Question 3

How do ethical issues arise?

Answer 3

When there is a conflict between gaining valuable research and preserving the rights and dignity of participants

Question 4

Why were ethical guidelines implemented?

Answer 4

Ethical guidelines were established to to protect those involved in research

Question 5

What is an example of research which may raise sensitive social issues?

Answer 5

• Bowlby’s theory of attachment proposed the critical attachment period (first 2 years of life)
• This led to Britain not offering free childcare for children under 5
  based on the belief that children should remain with their primary caregiver (usually the mother) during the critical attachment period
• In reality, this was a form of discrimination against women in the workplace; it was after WW2 and men needed jobs

Question 6

How does intra-sexual selection and inter-sexual selection pose as socially sensitive research?

Answer 6

• Used to justify prejudice and discrimination; men were seen as incapable to be faithful and women were discriminated if they were sexually active as it’s not ‘lady-like’
• However, sexual selection is sub-conscious; people still have a conscious control over the way they behave