Ethical Issues

• What organization provides the Code of Ethics and Conduct for ethical issues?

  British Psychological Society
• What are the four key principles outlined in the ethical guidelines?

  • Respect
  • Competence
  • Responsibility
  • Integrity
• What does privacy in ethical research concern?

  People's right not to be observed
• How should researchers deal with privacy concerns?

  Avoid observing without consent
• What is a limitation of defining public places for observation?

  No accepted definition of public places
• What does confidentiality ensure according to the Data Protection Act?

  Protection of personal identifiable information
• How can researchers maintain confidentiality?

  Use a coding system for data
• What is a limitation of maintaining confidentiality in small studies?

  Participants may be identifiable through answers
• What right do participants have regarding deception in studies?

  Not to be lied to during research
• How should researchers handle deception in studies?

  Do not lie unless absolutely necessary
• What is a limitation of debriefing after deception?

  Participants may feel embarrassed after learning the truth
• What does the right to withdraw entail for participants?

  Choice to leave at any time
• How should researchers inform participants about their right to withdraw?

  Clearly inform them before the study
• What is a limitation regarding the right to withdraw in studies with payment?

  Payment may induce participants to stay
• What is informed consent in research?

  Right to know what participation involves
• How can researchers ensure informed consent?

  Get formal agreement after explaining the study
• What is a limitation of providing details about the study for informed consent?

  It can lead to demand characteristics
• What does protection from harm ensure for participants?

  No psychological or physical damage during study
• How can researchers minimize risks to participants?

  Use a pilot study to identify risks
• What is a limitation of predicting risks in research?

  Some risks may arise unexpectedly
• How do researchers ensure adherence to ethical procedures?

  Follow ethical guidelines and proposals
• What is the role of an ethics board in research?

  Decide if research should proceed
• What should consent forms include?

  • Addressed to the participant
  • Detailed information about procedures
  • Clearly outline the right to withdraw
  • Ask for consent
• What should be included in a debriefing?

  • Thank the participant
  • Explain the study's purpose
  • Discuss unparticipated conditions
  • Explain right to withdraw data
  • Provide contact details for questions