Issues and Debates - Ethical Implications of Research Studies and Theory Flashcards
Define ethical implications in psychology.
The impact that psychological research may have in terms of the rights of other people, especially participants. This includes, at a societal level, influencing public policy and/or the way in which certain groups of people are regarded.
Define socially sensitive research.
Sieber and Stanley (1988) define socially sensitive research as “studies in which there are potential consequences or implications, either directly for the participants in the research or for the class of individuals represented by the research.”
What are ethical implications of socially sensitive research?
Sieber and Stanley (1988) identified a number of concerns that researchers should be mindful of:
Implications – Wider effects of such research should be carefully considered as some studies may give “scientific” credibility to prejudice and discrimination.
Uses/public policy – What is the research likely to be used for and who will it affect? For example, findings may be adopted by the government to shape public policy.
The validity of research – Some findings that were presented as objective and value-free in the past have later turned out to be highly suspect or fraudulent (e.g., Burt’s research on IQ).
What is one evaluation point for socially sensitive research?
Point: Socially sensitive research can have benefits for society.
Evidence: Sandra Scarr (1988) argues that studies of underrepresented groups and issues may promote greater sensitivity and understanding, helping to reduce prejudice.
Explain: For instance, research into the unreliability of eyewitness testimony has helped reduce miscarriages of justice within the legal system.
Link: This demonstrates that socially sensitive research may play a valuable role in improving societal outcomes.
What is another evaluation point for socially sensitive research?
Point: The way in which research questions are phrased can affect the interpretation of findings.
Evidence: Sieber and Stanley (1988) warn that researchers must consider how their questions may influence interpretations, while Coyle (1995) highlights how research into alternative relationships has often been influenced by heterosexual norms.
Explain: This bias could lead to misrepresentation of minority groups.
Link: Researchers must approach their work with openness to prevent reinforcing societal biases.
What is another evaluation point for socially sensitive research?
Point: Socially sensitive research raises questions about who benefits from its findings.
Evidence: Some research has been used by governments and institutions to shape public policy in controversial ways, such as using findings on IQ to discriminate between social groups.
Explain: This demonstrates how findings can be misused, highlighting the ethical responsibility of researchers.
Link: Awareness of potential misuse can help mitigate harmful outcomes.
What is one more evaluation point for socially sensitive research?
Point: There are potential ethical issues in socially sensitive research.
Evidence: For example, Packard’s (1957) research into subliminal messaging suggested that consumer behaviour could be manipulated, which was later discredited.
Explain: This highlights how ethical issues may arise when findings are misinterpreted or exaggerated for personal or corporate gain.
Link: Researchers must ensure their work is not distorted for unethical purposes.
