Issues and debates: ethical issues (learning)

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 & A03 (are but justified)

Answer 2

A01
* Animal research, like Pavlov’s, raised early ethical concerns. Today, animal work must pass strict cost–benefit analysis under the Scientific Procedures Act.

A03
Pavlov (1927):
* Saliva-collection apparatus was invasive.
* However, justified through evolutionary theory — findings about basic conditioning were generalised to humans, supporting the cost–benefit justification.

Question 3

A01 & A03 (are)

Answer 3

A01
Early learning studies caused potential psychological harm by inducing fear without treating it, breaching protection from harm.

A03
Watson & Rayner (1920):
Conditioned Little Albert to fear white objects without any deconditioning.
Clear violation of ethical protection, likely causing long-term psychological harm.

Question 4

judgement

Answer 4

Overall, learning psychology has raised serious ethical concerns historically, especially with early human and animal research, although modern standards are stricter.