ethical issues

• ethical issues

  They arise when a conflict between the rights of ppts in research studies and the goals of the research to produce authentic, worthwhile data
• informed consent


  Making ppts aware of the aims, procedures, rights and what the data is used for. This may cause the ppts to not act naturally.
• right to withdraw

  Allows a research ppt to drop out of the study anytime without a penalty
• deception


  Deliberately misleading ppts
• protection from harm


  Ppts shouldn't be placed at any more risk than in their daily life (including physical and psychological). This can make the ppt feel embarrassed or inadequate.
• privacy and confidentiality


  Privacy is the right to control information about themselves which includes the area the research was produced.

  Confidentiality is the right to have any personal data protected.
• the BPS (British Psychological Society) code of conduct


  It is a set of ethical guidelines which researcher have to follow or face consequences (such as losing their job). it ensures ppts are treated fairly and is implemented by committees that decide research should take place.
• ways of getting consent

  • Presumptive consent
  • prior general consent
  • retrospective consent
• presumptive consent

  A similar group is asked if a study is acceptable
• dealing with informed consent

  It is when ppts are issued with a consent letter/form. If ppt is under 16 a parental signature is needed. There are other ways of getting consent
• prior general consent


  It is when ppts permit to take part in different studies.
• retrospective consent


  When ppts are asked for consent after taking part in research. This is mostly used.
• dealing with deception and protection from harm

  Ppts are given a full debrief at the end which includes:

  • making them aware of the aims
  • what their data is used for and the right to withdraw and withhold data
  • ensured that behaviour is normal
  • if embarrassment or stress is subjected then counselling should be offered
• dealing with confidentiality

  Usual to record no personal data (using numbers or initials). ppts are reminded during briefing and debriefing that data will be protected.