Psychology: Ethical Issues

Confidentiality
1. Any information obtained in a study should be completely confidential.
  1. Participants should give permission before hand if the researcher wants the results to be shared or published.
Debriefing
1. Participants should, where possible, be debriefed.
  1. The participant should be informed of the true nature and purpose of the study at the end.
Withdrawal from the investigation
1. It should be made clear to participants that they are free to withdraw at any time.
  1. If participants look upset they should be offered the chance to leave.
Protection of participants
1. Participants shouldn't be placed under any great stress, nor should they be harmed, either physically or mentally.
  1. Stop the study if it looks like participants are under stress.
Deception
1. Participants shouldn't be deceived unless it is absolutely necessary.
  1. Deception should be minimal and a full debrief explaining the need for deception should be offered.
Concent
1. Wherever possible the informed consent should be gained.
  1. If this is impractical a full debrief should be given.
The use of children
1. Young children can't give consent, they may be easily upset and they may not be able to say that they don't want to do what the psychologist asks them to.
  1. Gain the consent of the parent or guardian.
  2. Don't cause the children any upset or embarrassment.
  3. Stop the study if the child shows any reluctance to continue.

Resource summary

	Created by Becca Westwell about 10 years ago