Ethics AO3

Wider impact (-)

• Socially sensitive research can have implications for whole groups of people that don’t even take part in research. This means psychologists need to not only protect participants in research but be conscious of the wider indirect repercussions their research can have

• This awareness could help reduce negative consequences, yet some research findings cannot always be accurately predicted, meaning issues are still likely to arise

• e.g. The theory that individuals with schizophrenia have mothers whose behaviour is contradictory and unpredictable. 

Long term benefit (+)

• It can be argues that a lot of our understanding of human behaviour comes from research deemed unethical e.g. Milgram, Zimbardo

• Unethical research needs to have its contribution to this understanding examined, so the benefits of the research need to be weighed up alongside the costs 

Socially sensitive research is important (+)

• There is a school of thought suggesting we should not shy away from sensitive and potentially offensive research

• Just because research is socially sensitive does not mean it should not be conducted. Aronson (1999) states psychologists have a social responsibility to conduct socially sensitive research i.e. it’s how and what is researched that matters

• Hence, many psychologists have a duty to investigate socially sensitive issues

More engagement with policymakers needed (-)

• Psychologists should be aware their research has the potential to be misused and may lead to abuse, prejudice and discrimination. To avoid this, psychologists should be energetic in taking responsibility for the presentation of their findings to ensure that their research is disseminated properly.

• If researchers take personal responsibility for their studies, they can ensure the findings and conclusions can be communicated in an appropriately sensitive way, reducing the negative aspects that arise

• E.g. Bowlby’s monotropic theory has long been regarded as too offensive from many due to Bowlby’s inability to outline his theory in a considerate manner. His claim of mothers being the main attachment has harmed parental leave laws for decades., which could be construed as entirely unnecessary.