2.1.4 Factors influencing method choice (E)

Question 1

What are ethical issues?

Answer 1

• Ethics are the moral principles dictating what is right & wrong which guide research.
• The following are important ethical issues to consider:
• Informed consent.
• Confidentiality & privacy.
• Protection.
• Vulnerable groups.

Question 2

What is informed consent?

Answer 2

• Research participants should be given the opportunity to agree or refuse to participate in research.
• The decision should be informed so some information of the study should be revealed.

Question 3

What is confidentiality & privacy?

Answer 3

• Research should respect the privacy of the participants & the identity & personal information should be kept confidential.

Question 4

What is protection?

Answer 4

• Researchers need to be aware of the possible effects of their work on those they study & where possible anticipate & prevent harmful consequences.

Question 5

What are vulnerable groups?

Answer 5

• Those vulnerable due to age, physical or mental health etc.
• Special care should be taken care of vulnerable participants.

Question 6

What is a research example regarding ethical issues?

Answer 6

• Laud Humphreys (1970) covert participant observation.
• He observed gay sexual encounters in public toilets.
• He became part of the gay scene in Chicago.

Question 7

What are arguments against Humphreys research method?

Answer 7

• He violated (unaware) participants privacy & trust.
• Participants didn’t give informed consent.

Question 8

What are arguments supporting Humphreys research method?

Answer 8

• Highlighted stigma around the gay community.
• Members of the gay community applauded this.
• His findings were more valid & honest.