ISSUES AND DEBATES - ethical Implications Of Research Studies And Theories

Question 1

What are ethical implications?

Answer 1

The consequences of any research in terms of the effects on the individual participants or groups of participants. There may be consequences on a wider societal level .

Question 2

Who proposed social sensitivity?

Answer 2

Sieber and Stanley (1988)

Question 3

Define social sensitivity.

Answer 3

Studies in which there are potential consequences or implications, either directly for the participants in the research or the class of individuals represented by the research.

Question 4

Give an example of social sensitivity.

Answer 4

research investigating the genetic basis of criminality may have far-reaching consequences for those who take part or for the broader social groups the participants represent.
- studies that tackle socially sensitive ‘taboo’ topics e.g. race or sexuality attract attention from the public.

Question 5

give an example of low social sensitivity research.

Answer 5

Research on long-term memory in students is unlikely to affect individual participants or
broader social groups.

Participants may come from various backgrounds, meaning no single social group is impacted.

Findings are unlikely to influence social policies.

Question 6

give an example of high social sensitivity research

Answer 6

eg depression research- Participants may disclose personal information that could be accessed by future employers.

Findings may lead to harmful stereotypes, e.g., suggesting people with depression never fully
recover.

Could influence social policy, such as NHS recommendations for depression treatment.

Question 7

what are some implications for the research process of socially sensitive research.

Answer 7

• the way questions are phrased can influence findings and interpretations.
• socially sensitive topics require careful handling consent, confidentiality and psychological harm
• Researchers should consider how findings are used. eg studies on ethnicity and intelligence have historically reinforced prejudices.

Question 8

What are the strengths of socially sensitive research?

Answer 8

+ benefits groups that have been studied = eg homosexuality = in 1952 DSM said it was ‘sociopathic personality disorder’ but it was finally removed in 1973. Homosexuality was considered to be a typical expression of human sexual behaviour.

+ RWA= policy makers rely on socially sensitive research eg decisions related to child care, mental health provision, crime. It is preferable to base policies on scientific research than politically motivated views. This suggests that psychologists have an important role in providing high quality research on socially sensitive topics.

Question 9

What are the limitations of socially sensitive research?

Answer 9

• some studies have negative consequences eg research investigating the criminal gene. Does this mean someone can be convicted because they have the gene? There is a need for careful consideration of the possible consequences of research outcomes.

-