Essay
Discuss the ethical implications of research studies and theory
- Module
- Issues and debates
- Institution
- AQA
A level issues and debates 16 marker full mark essay
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Discuss the ethical implications of research studies and theory, including reference to socialsensitivity (16 marks).
Ethical implications consider the impact or consequences that psychological research may
have on certain individuals outside of the study rather than just the participants involved.
Ethical guidelines are put in place by the BPS to help overcome ethical issues within the
study, such as protection from harm, however, it is much harder to control the ethical issues
outside of the study once it reaches the media. Some studies such as research into race,
gender, sexuality are more susceptible to social sensitivity than others as findings can be
harmful to those who identify within the groups being studied. For example, Bowbly’s
theory of attachment suggests that children form one special attachment bond, usually the
mother, and that this bond affects their future relationships through an internal working
model. This theory encourages the view that a women’s place is at home with her children,
which could be seen as socially sensitive due to the issue of gender inequality and the
growing population of women in work.
Sieber and Stanley (1988) used the term social sensitivity to describe studies where there
are potential social consequences for the participants, or the group of people represented
by the research. They identified four aspects that raise ethical implications in socially
sensitive research. Firstly, the researcher must consider their research question carefully so
that it is asked in a way that isn’t damaging to members of a particular group. For example,
asking, “are there racial differences in IQ” is a damaging question. Secondly, the
methodology used is important in ensuring the correct treatment of the participant and
their right to confidentiality. Thirdly, the researcher must consider the institutional context.
If the research is funded privately, they should understand why they are funding the
research and what they intend to use it for. Finally, the researcher needs to consider how
their findings might be interpreted and applied in the real-world. They also identified ten
types of ethical issues that are especially important in socially sensitive research. These
include privacy, confidentiality, ownership of data and risk/benefit ratio as a few outlined by
them.
A limitation of socially sensitive research is that it could disadvantage marginalised groups
and possibly lead to issues of discrimination and therefore, some psychologists argue
against conducting this form of research. For example, Cyril Burt used studies of identical
twins to support his view that intelligence is largely genetic. His views greatly influenced the
Hadow Report (1926), which led to the creation of the 11+ exam for entry into a selective
‘grammar school’. This was used throughout England and is still used today in a few areas.
This meant that generations of children were affected by the 11+ exam, even though there
has been huge controversy regarding whether Burt has falsified his research data. However,
it is important to note that not all socially sensitive research is controversial, and some is
desirable and beneficial to society. For example, research examining eye-witness testimony.
An easily solution to handle socially sensitive research is to avoid it all together. Arguing in
favour of this would mean that the negative consequences of the findings for the
participants or certain groups would be avoided. However, it would also mean that
psychologists would have nothing to examine except unimportant issues. Furthermore,
there are endless examples of socially sensitive research that has been beneficial for the
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