Socially Sensitive Research

Question 1

What is socially sensitive research?

Answer 1

Socially sensitive research involves studies that have a potential to have a
negative impact on specific groups of people or on society.

In this respect they can be controversial and questionable in a social, political and ethical sense.

All psychological research has a direct effect on individuals, people and society, so in this sense all research is socially sensitive but to what extent is this in acceptable because it is necessary?

Question 2

Three specific areas of psychological research which raise issues of social
sensitivity are:

Answer 2

Culture and ethnicity
Sex and gender
Distress to participants

Question 3

Suggest why the research in the individual differences area is often considered socially sensitive
Support your answer with examples from relevant core studies (5)

Answer 3