Ethical Standards for Conducting Research

• The American Psychological Association (APA) was first established in 1892 as the governing board to study behavior

• By 1947, the APA formed the first Ethical Committee to create a set of standards by which all psychological research must adhere to

  • This is done when conducting any study at a university or college through the Institutional Review Boards (IRB) around the country to protect both human and animal subjects

• In 2010, the most recent version of the ethical standards were released

• Principle A: Beneficence and Non-maleficence

  • Researchers must conduct studies with are beneficial to others and does not harm its subjects

• Principle B: Fidelity and Responsibility

  • Cultivate a positive atmosphere for the field of psychology and scientific environment built on trust, accountability, and ethical consideration

• Principle C: Integrity

  • Psychologists must engage in trusting and transparent practices within all aspects of psychology

  • There is an exception… researchers can deceive subjects when conducing social psychological studies, as long as the deception is not putting the participant in any danger

• Principle D: Justice

  • Psychologists must prevent unjust practices by remaining aware of their biases, level of competence, and area of limits and expertise

• Principle E: Respect for People’s Rights and Dignity

  • Subjects are informed consent and their right to privacy is maintained

• In 2002, ethical codes were mandated to protect animals in a humane way

  • Researchers must acquire, care for, use, and dispose of animals in accordance with federal, state, and local laws