Ethical issues

• Lack of informed consent:


  > Ps must fully understand what they’re agreeing to

  > If not, Ps don’t have enough information to make a full decision

  > Alternatives - retrospective consent = asking Ps after study if their data can be used
• Deception:

  > Lying

  > Not acceptable if deception causes distress

  > Should be avoided where possible

  > Debriefing - deals with deception, fully informs P of study
• Right to withdraw:

  > Ps should be aware that they have a right to withdraw at any time

  > Ps can also withdraw data at any time

  > Following guidelines - researchers should always follow ethical guidelines outlined by BPS or APA
• Confidentiality:

  > Lack of - data has been exposed to public with no consent

  > Researchers can use a pseudonym to protect confidentiality
• Lack of protection from harm:


  > Ps should be protected from physical and psychological harm

  > If it does happen, researcher should rectify it ASAP

  > Role play - Ps can give consent to be exposed to this harm and have right to withdraw
• Privacy:

  > If Ps are unaware they’re being observed, it should be in a place where they expect people to be observed (public)

  > Follow ethical guidelines outlined by BPS/APA