Socially sensitive research

Question 1

Define socially sensitive research.

Answer 1

Research studies or theories which might have potential controversial consequences for groups of people related to the research eg families, gender, institutions.

Question 2

Give 2 examples of socially sensitive research.

Answer 2

Milgram - ethical issues
Evolutionary theory- legitimising
Freudian research theories into sexuality

Question 3

Summarise Stanley and steibers approach to considering socially sensitive research.

Answer 3

1. Consider research questions eg any political problems, who might impact
2. Methodology used: consider carefully briefing, debriefing, anonymity etc
3. Institutional context: whose asked for it/paid for it, how’s data going to be used
4. Interpretation and application of findings: know what will happen w results

Question 4

How else could psychologists deal with issue of social sensitivity?

Answer 4

Sensitive briefing/debriefing, asking teachers etc, sensitive research techniques eg unstructured interviews, care in relation to publication, disclosure of results and confidentiality.

Question 5

How has focus on social sensitivity helped psychologists develop research?

Answer 5

Forced them to develop research using sieber and Stanley’s guidelines for example given a way to do SSR in a much more considerate way. Helped move psychology forward.

Question 6

Some psychologists say socially sensitive research shouldn’t be done at all. Why?

Answer 6

Can lead to issues with justification for discrimination eg research examining racial differences in IQ led to forced sterilisation

Question 7

Employing the guidelines for research can be difficult. Why?

Answer 7

Guidelines difficult to use because no practical solutions offered to issues raised so difficult to tackle. Also guidelines are too stringent which prevents useful research. Also people unable to anticipate the effects of research do difficult to adhere to.

Question 8

Some say SSR is useful. How?

Answer 8

Research examining EWT especially use of child witnesses had found young children are reliable witnesses if they are questioned appropriately.

Question 9

What would be the ultimate problem w prohibiting research proposals based on sensitivity?

Answer 9

Prohibiting research would be controversial in itself and not conducting SSR is a dereliction of psychologists duties. There would be no academic freedom and the real danger that research would be stopped for political reasons not ethical reasons.