Socially Sensitive Research

Question 1

Socially Sensitive AO1

Answer 1

There are studies in psychology that can provoke strong feelings within communities. For example, results of some studies may offend or divide groups, or portray certain groups in a bad light e.g. people from this background are more aggressive etc. This is an issue as psychology is supposed to improve lives, not potentially do the opposite. Psychologists shouldn’t refrain from all studies to prevent a chance of socially sensitive results, but impact of publication should be considered

Question 2

Socially Sensitive Y1 Examples

Answer 2

Social - Any research into prejudice + discrimination could be socially sensitive. Very early social studies criticised for exaggerating differences between races to push racist narratives. Shana & Yaya could paint people from Jordan as having no morals etc.

Cognitive - Distressing being diagnosed with dementia. Seb. Hernandez-Gil discussed poor digit span in dementia patients. Useful knowing the damage but must be done sensitivelly

Biological - Neurological explanations for aggression can affect some groups e.g. as Raine said not to screen for brain activity as could discriminate

Learning - Aversion therapy for homosexuality is socially sensitive