Accuracy & Ethics in Sociological Research
Tuesday, October 15, 2024 4:47 PM
Important issues in sociological research include accuracy, ethics, and the reasons for studying
sociology. Sociology provides an accurate way to understand society and human behavior. To
ensure accuracy in social research, validity and reliability are crucial factors.
Validity
• Validity refers to the appropriateness of the measures used in social research.
• Social sciences often deal with abstract concepts such as attitudes and opinions.
• One way to measure variables in social research is through surveys, which involve asking
appropriate questions. The validity of a survey depends on whether the questions actually
measure what they intend to measure.
• Constructing questionnaires that address the research question accurately and are
interpreted consistently by all respondents is essential for ensuring validity.
Reliability
• Reliability, on the other hand, refers to the consistency of the measuring device or
method used in research. If a study is conducted properly and replicated using the same
methods and instruments, it should yield the same results.
• Statistical tools are often used to test reliability. To enhance reliability, researchers must
select appropriate methodologies, use representative samples, and employ reliable
measuring instruments. By obtaining consistent results through replication, researchers
can rely on their findings to be accurate.
Ethics in Sociological Research
• Ethics play a vital role in sociological research. Violations of ethical standards can lead to harm to
research subjects and undermine the integrity of the research.
• Examples of unethical research practices include using participants without their informed
consent, deceiving or manipulating participants, engaging in abusive or harmful practices, and
disregarding privacy and confidentiality.
• Institutions have Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) to review and approve research proposals
involving human and animal subjects.
• Researchers must adhere to ethical codes, which may vary across professional organizations.
• Ethical concerns in sociological research include protecting participants from harm, obtaining
informed consent, ensuring privacy and confidentiality, avoiding plagiarism and falsification of
data, and promoting voluntary participation.
The American Sociological Association has its own code of ethics which outlines the ethical standards for
sociological research. Adhering to these ethical standards is essential to maintain the integrity of
research and protect the well-being of research subjects.
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