Evaluation

• Use of erroneous findings from socially sensitive research 


  -May have ethical implications because of the poorly designed research and incorrect findings may have a significant impact especially if they are incorrect.

  -A psychologist used MZ twins to support that intelligence is due to genetics. This led to the development of 11+ exam end of Y6. This was to determine which school they would go to. This assumed intelligence is innate, shows testing at age 11 could indicate someone's future potential. However, it was later found that the research was fraudulent and was publicly discredited.
• Avoiding social sensitivity research may be morally irresponsible

  -It may be impossible to see if research will have any ethical implications.

  -Socially sensitive research has positive implications for individuals e.g. helping to challenge prejudice and correcting policies and practices based on erroneous findings.

  -Psychological research has an important role to play on shaping government policy and should be aware of the need to provide high quality research on socially sensitive topics.
• Dealing with ethical implications

  -Psychologists submit their research to an ethics committee who consider the ethics implications.

  -A cost benefit analysis may be conducted in which research is approved only if the benefits of publication outweighs the costs.

  -The ethics committee may consider the short-term costs and long-term gain for future generations.

  -Psychologists are encouraged to be more reflexive in the design of research.