Sociology-Module 1–Topic 8: Applying Ethical Principles in Research

What ethical issue is involved in informed consent in research on domestic violence?

Definition: Participants must be fully informed about the purpose, procedures, and risks of the research and voluntarily agree to participate.

• Advantage:
  • Upholds participant autonomy.

• Disadvantage:
  • Difficult to obtain fully in sensitive research.

Why are anonymity and confidentiality important in domestic violence research?

Definition: Researchers must protect participants’ identities and ensure personal information is not disclosed.

• Advantage:
  • Encourages honest responses and protects participants.

• Disadvantage:
  • Difficult to maintain in small communities or qualitative studies.

Why is protection from harm important in sociological research?

Definition: Researchers must ensure participants and researchers are not exposed to physical, psychological, or emotional harm.

• Advantage:
  • Protects individuals from harm.

• Disadvantage:
  • May limit the scope of research.

What is the right to withdraw in sociological research?

Definition: Participants have the right to leave the study or refuse to answer questions at any time without penalty.

• Advantage:
  • Protects participants’ freedom.

• Disadvantage:
  • May affect sample size or research results.

Why should researchers avoid deception in sociological research?

Definition: Researchers should not mislead participants about the purpose or nature of the study unless absolutely necessary.

• Advantage:
  • Builds trust between researcher and participant.

• Disadvantage:
  • May limit the study of certain behaviours.

Why should researchers avoid leading questions in sociological research?

Definition: Researchers must ask neutral questions that do not influence or pressure participants to give a particular answer.

• Advantage:
  • Improves data validity.

• Disadvantage:
  • Requires careful question design.

Why must vulnerable groups be protected in sociological research?

Definition: Extra protection must be given to groups that may be easily exploited or unable to fully protect their interests, such as children or victims of abuse.

• Advantage:
  • Protects those easily exploited.

• Disadvantage:
  • Can restrict access to important populations.