Methods, Samples, and Ethics

Question 1

Informed Consent

Answer 1

autonomy and respect for participants’ rights
* informed about procedure and risks of study
* voluntary participation
* consent from legal guardians
full disclosure may compromise study validity

Question 2

Deception

Answer 2

withholding or mispresenting information to participants to avoid demand characteristics which would compromise study validity, allows study of behaviour with reduced participant bias
* ethical only to maintain validity of study
* must not cause undue harm or stress
* debrief participants about deception
balance scientific validity with ethical obligations

Question 3

Confidentiality

Answer 3

securing participants’ personal information and reporting results such that they are not publicly identifiable
protects participants from professional/social/legal reprocussions
- confidentiality = keeping personal information secure
- anonymity - not collecting personal information
legal obligation challenges confidentality

Question 4

Debrief

Answer 4

explaining study purpose, procedure, findings and results
maintains integrity of psychological research
- no undue harm or distress
- informed of right to withdrawal
- retrospective consent is obtained
some studies require extended debriefing

Question 5

Right to Withdrawal

Answer 5

participants can discontinue participation without penalty or consequence
ensures voluntary participation
- participants informed before study begins
- applies to both participation and data usage
participant attrition compromises data results

Question 6

Protection from Harm

Answer 6

ensure the study does not expose participants to undue harm or stress
maintain integrity of psychological research
- researchers terminate trial if significant harm is detected
- measures to reduce psychological stress
- risk assessment necessary
unforeseen harm should be addressed promptly