Issues & Debates- Ethical Implications Of Research Studies & Theory Flashcards
Ethical implications -
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.
Social sensitivity -
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 in psychological research?
Ethical implications refer to the broader social impact of research, including how findings are represented in the media, their influence on public policy, and their effect on perceptions of particular groups in society.
What is socially sensitive research?
Socially sensitive research involves studies that may have significant consequences for participants or broader social groups, often addressing controversial or taboo topics such as ethnicity, sexuality, or the genetic basis of behavior.
Why is socially sensitive research important despite its ethical challenges?
Socially sensitive research is important because it addresses underrepresented groups and issues, potentially reducing prejudice, increasing understanding, and benefiting society (e.g., improving legal systems through eyewitness testimony research).
What concerns should researchers be mindful of in socially sensitive research?
Researchers should consider the implications of their work, potential misuse of findings, the validity of the research, and how the framing of research questions may influence interpretations.
What are the potential implications of socially sensitive research?
Research may inadvertently give scientific credence to prejudice or discrimination, such as studies on the racial basis of intelligence, and its findings may be used to shape public policy or political agendas.
How can the validity of socially sensitive research be compromised?
Some past research presented as objective has been found to be fraudulent or biased (e.g., Burt’s IQ research), though modern researchers often acknowledge their biases and the reflexive nature of their work.
What are the benefits of socially sensitive research?
It can promote sensitivity and understanding of underrepresented groups, reduce prejudice, and benefit society (e.g., reducing miscarriages of justice through eyewitness testimony research).
How can the framing of research questions influence findings?
The phrasing and approach to research questions can lead to biased interpretations, such as cultural superiority in cross-cultural research or heterosexual bias in studies of alternative relationships.
What is an example of socially sensitive research being misused?
In the 1950s, Vance Packard’s fabricated study on subliminal messaging was used by marketing companies to manipulate public behavior, raising ethical concerns about who benefits from such research.
How has socially sensitive research been used for social control?
In the 1920s and 30s, research on intelligence was used to justify compulsory sterilization of individuals deemed “feeble-minded,” highlighting the dangers of misusing socially sensitive findings.
What role do ethics committees play in socially sensitive research?
Ethics committees weigh the potential costs and benefits of research, though the social consequences of studies involving vulnerable groups can be difficult to predict.
What ethical implications of socially sensitive research are difficult to predict?
The long-term social impact, potential misuse of findings, and unintended consequences for vulnerable groups are particularly difficult to anticipate.
How does socially sensitive research tie into Stephen Gould’s idea of scientific racism?
Socially sensitive research has historically been used to support discriminatory practices, such as scientific racism, which Gould criticized for misusing science to justify prejudice.
What is an example of socially sensitive research benefiting society?
Research on the unreliability of eyewitness testimony has reduced the risk of miscarriages of justice, demonstrating the positive impact of socially sensitive studies.
What is the responsibility of researchers in conducting socially sensitive research?
Researchers must approach their work with an open mind, acknowledge their biases, and consider the broader ethical implications of their findings to avoid misrepresenting minority groups.
What is the potential harm of misrepresenting socially sensitive research findings?
Misrepresentation can perpetuate stereotypes, justify discrimination, and lead to harmful public policies, as seen in historical examples like eugenics programs.
How can socially sensitive research challenge societal norms?
By addressing taboo topics and underrepresented groups, socially sensitive research can challenge biases, promote acceptance, and encourage societal change.
What is the relationship between socially sensitive research and public policy?
Findings from socially sensitive research can influence public policy, but this also raises ethical concerns about how such research is used and who benefits from it.
What is the importance of reflexivity in socially sensitive research?
Reflexivity involves researchers acknowledging their biases and preconceptions, which helps ensure the validity and ethical integrity of their work.
What is the role of psychologists in addressing socially sensitive topics?
Psychologists have a social responsibility to conduct socially sensitive research, as it can lead to greater understanding, reduce prejudice, and address important societal issues.
