Ethical implications of research studies and theories

• What is a potential issue with conducting socially sensitive research?

  The impact could be greater than researchers believed.
• Who might be indirectly impacted by socially sensitive research?

  The participant's family, co-workers, or the group they represent.
• Why is it important for researchers to consider the larger group in socially sensitive research?

  Because the research may impact the larger group of which the participant is a member.
• What must researchers think beyond when conducting socially sensitive research?

  They must think beyond simply safeguarding the interests of the individual.
• What could potentially outweigh the benefits of conducting socially sensitive research?

  The costs of carrying out the research.
• What are the ethical implications of socially sensitive research?

  • Greater impact than anticipated
  • Indirect effects on families and groups
  • Need for broader consideration beyond individual interests
  • Potential costs may outweigh benefits
• What is a significant problem with conducting socially sensitive research?

  Many groups in society have suffered from exclusion or misrepresentation in research
• Which groups are mentioned as being potentially misrepresented in research?

  Persons with disabilities, the elderly, the disadvantaged, and members of minority cultures
• How has our understanding of human behavior been affected by research shortcomings?

  It has been lessened due to misinterpretations and lack of representative samples
• What are the consequences of failing to include certain groups in psychological research?

  These groups miss out on potential benefits of research
• What is a potential issue with socially sensitive research?

  It could lead to data being misused.
• How can researchers avoid misuse of data in socially sensitive research?

  By engaging with wider society.
• Who should researchers engage with to promote responsible use of their findings?

  Both the public and policymakers.
• Why is it important for psychologists to take a proactive approach to their findings?

  To reduce the likelihood of their data being misused.
• What might be a consequence of psychologists not being aware of how their results could be used?

  It might lead to abuse and discrimination.
• What do Sieber and Stanley suggest about the results of socially sensitive research?

  They might offer ‘scientific credibility to the prevailing prejudice’.
• How should individual researchers promote their research in a socially sensitive way?

  By being supported in their efforts.
• What is the difference between promoting research in a socially sensitive way and taking a neutral position?

  • Promoting research socially sensitively involves engaging with society and considering the implications of findings.
  • Taking a neutral position means avoiding responsibility for how findings are used.
• What is one solution to handling socially sensitive research?

  To avoid it altogether
• Why should researchers avoid topics like homosexuality, race, gender, or addiction?

  Because the findings may have negative consequences for participants or society
• What is a potential consequence of avoiding socially sensitive research?

  Psychologists may be left with unimportant issues to examine
• What do Sieber and Stanley argue about ignoring sensitive research?

  • It is not a responsible approach to science
  • Avoiding controversial topics is an avoidance of responsibility
  • Psychologists have a duty to conduct such research
• Who argues that ignoring sensitive research is irresponsible?

  Sieber and Stanley
• What is the implication of conducting socially sensitive research?

  It may lead to negative consequences but is necessary for responsible science