Issues and debates: ethical issues (cog)

Question 1

INTRO

Ethical issues

Answer 1

Researchers need to consider the potential physical or psychological risks to participants and are responsible for ensuring that the level of risk is minimised and that participants are fully aware of any risk before they agree to participate. Adhering to the BPS code of conduct (Respect, Competence, Responsibility and Integrity).

Question 2

A01 and A03 (case studies)

Answer 2

A01
- Case studies allow the investigation of rare cognitive damage ethically, which couldn’t be recreated in a lab without harm.
- However, participants with memory impairments (e.g., STM issues) may struggle with informed consent and remembering their right to withdraw.

A03
Clive Wearing and HM:
- Both were unable to provide valid, ongoing consent as they continually forgot participating.
- Clive Wearing’s identity was not fully protected, breaching confidentiality.
- Their inability to remember their rights meant they couldn’t exercise the right to withdraw.
- However, psychologists often gain presumptive consent from legal guardians, allowing research while respecting ethical codes.

Question 3

A01 & A03 (lab experiments)

Answer 3

A01
- Lab memory experiments are more ethical: participants can be fully informed and reminded of their rights throughout.
- Controlled settings make it easy to debrief and minimise potential harm.

A03
Baddeley:
- Participants were volunteers and provided informed consent.
No deception was used, and no physical or psychological harm occurred.
- As a result, Baddeley’s memory research meets high ethical standards.

Question 4

Judgement

Answer 4

Overall, cognitive psychology can face ethical issues, but these are often well managed through appropriate consent procedures and ethical oversight