Ethical implications of research studies and theory -A-Level Psychology
Ethical implications:
-the impact psychological research may have based on the rights of people,especially pps.This includes at a societal level,influencing public policy/or the way in which certain groups of people are regarded.
-arise when there is conflict between psychology’s need to gain valid and valuable research findings as well as preserving the rights and dignity of pps.
-ethical guidelines have been set,however the social impact is hard to control
-researchers may have little say on how their research findings are represented in the media,the impact of their work on public policy or how it may influence the perception of particular groups in society(wider ethical implications of research)
Socially sensitive research:
-Some areas of research are controversial so subject to greater social sensitivity,than others.
-e.g race
Ethical issues in socially sensitive research:
Sieber and Stanley have identified a number of concerns that researchers should be mindful of when conducting socially sensitive research:
Implications–the wider effects should be considered as some studies may be seen giving ‘scientific’ credence to prejudice and discrimination.e.g studies examining the racial basis of intelligence.
Uses/public policy-what is the research used for,what would happen if it was used for the wrong purpose.Findings may be adopted by the government for political ends or to shape public policy.
The validity of the research-some findings that were presented as objective have turned out to be in some cases fraudulent.Many modern social constructionist researchers are more up front about their own biases and preconceptions and include comment on the reflexive nature of their work in their publications.
Evaluation:
Benefits of socially sensitive research-Sandra Scarr(1988) argued that studies of underrepresented groups and issues may promote a greater sensitivity and understanding of these.This can help reduce prejudice and encourage acceptance.Socially sensitive research into the unreliability of eyewitness testimony has reduced the risk of miscarriages of justice within the legal system.This suggests that socially sensitive research may play a valuable role in society.
Social sensitive research usage-has been used by the government and other institutions to shape policy,despite the sometimes dubious nature of its findings e.g Burt’s research into IQ and without full consideration of the moderating effects of the environment on characteristics such as intelligence.
The ethical implications of conducting research studies in psychology at A-Level include considerations of informed consent, confidentiality, protection of participants’ rights, and minimizing harm or distress. Ethical guidelines, such as the British Psychological Society’s Code of Human Research Ethics, provide principles to guide ethical research practices.
Informed consent is important in psychological research studies to ensure that participants fully understand the purpose, procedures, and potential risks of the study before they agree to participate. This helps to protect participants’ autonomy and ensures that they have the right to make an informed decision about their participation in the study.
Some ethical issues related to data collection in psychological research include ensuring the confidentiality and anonymity of participants, protecting their privacy, and obtaining informed consent for data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, or observations. It is important to handle data in a secure and responsible manner, and to obtain permission from participants before collecting any personal information.
Ethical considerations can impact the validity and reliability of research studies in psychology. For example, if participants are not fully informed or do not feel comfortable providing honest responses due to ethical concerns, it can affect the accuracy of the data collected. Similarly, if ethical guidelines are not followed, it can raise questions about the credibility and reliability of the research findings.
Researchers in psychological research may face ethical dilemmas related to issues such as balancing the benefits of research with the potential harm or discomfort to participants, ensuring the confidentiality and anonymity of data, and dealing with vulnerable populations, such as children or individuals with mental health conditions. Resolving ethical dilemmas requires careful consideration of the ethical principles and guidelines, and making informed decisions that prioritize the well-being and rights of participants.
Ethical guidelines and principles that guide research practices in psychology include informed consent, confidentiality, protection of participants’ rights, minimizing harm or distress, and transparency in reporting research findings. These guidelines are outlined in ethical codes such as the British Psychological Society’s Code of Human Research Ethics and the American Psychological Association’s Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct.
A-Level students can engage in critical reflection on the ethical implications of research studies in psychology by actively discussing and debating ethical issues in class, analyzing case studies or real-world examples, and considering different perspectives. They can also review and critically evaluate research articles or reports to identify and discuss ethical considerations in the design, conduct, and reporting of the research.
Understanding the ethical implications of research studies and theory in A-Level Psychology is important because it helps students develop a critical awareness of the ethical challenges and responsibilities in conducting research involving human participants. It promotes ethical literacy and ethical decision-making skills, which are essential in designing and conducting responsible and credible research in psychology or any other field of study.
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