EVALS Ethical Implications

• Evaluations for Ethical Implications

  • An implication of socially sensitive research is that it can have benefits
  • Our understanding of the consequences of SSR has lead to practical applications in how findings are published
  • Our understanding of the implications of SSR has led to more effective ways to deal with the consequences of SSR
• SSR can have benefits 


  Despite ethical implications, Scarr - studying underrepresented groups/issues can promote a greater understanding + sensitivity towards these groups/issues. This helps reduce prejudice towards groups and encourages acceptance. Rain et al - less gray matter in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) means you're more susceptible to suffer from APD. Short term, stigma about young people with less grey matter in their PFC potentially growing up to be offenders. Long term, it led to early identification of APD and early treatment like social skills development to improve the traits
• Our understanding of the consequences of SSR has led to practical application in how findings are published 


  To reduce the likelihood of misuse of data, psychologists take responsibility for what happens to their findings. The BPS have a press centre - provides evidence based psych research to the media in a way that prevents misuse. Aims to reduce the likelihood of results being used to abuse groups or be "scientific justification for discrimination". Understand that to reduce the misuse of research, as a community, psych needs to take responsibility for what happens to findings
• Understanding implications of SSR led to more effective ways to deal with the consequences of SSR


  Researchers claimed that we need to take action on two levels. First is by having a true awareness of the issue. Researchers should estimate the consequences that releasing their SSR can have on participant groups e.g. assess how much risk there is that the research could make them seem lesser/different to others, leading to victimisation/unfair treatment.
• Understanding implications of SSR led to more effective ways to deal with the consequences of SSR


  The second is pracitical dealing with the issue. Researchers should consult with participants and make them aware of possible consequences of the research before and after the research. Additionally, the researcher should avoid any bias and exaggeration in the scientific reporting. Research should be worded in a non-emotive, informative and non-leading way