Ethics

Ethical Considerations in Research

  • APA Principle #6 - Research with Human Participants

    • Investigators enjoy the freedom to explore research topics they find most scientifically valuable, known as Academic Freedom.

    • However, maintaining the safety and well-being of participants is paramount, adhering to both federal/ state regulations and professional research standards.

  • Weighing Risks and Benefits

    • Risks to participants must be justified by the potential benefits they receive from participating.

    • Types of risk identified include:

      • Minimal Risk: No increase in the likelihood or intensity of adverse events in comparison to expected risk.

  • Informed Consent

    • All participants should be provided with and must sign an informed consent form, outlining the study without compromising its integrity.

    • The form must clearly describe possible risks and benefits.

Informed Consent Example from Bloomsburg University

  • Participant Information

    • Name, Course details, Date, Age

  • Consent Statement

    • Willingness to participate in Reading Comprehension research by Dr. Julie Kontos and Amanda Matthews, expected duration is approximately 30 minutes.

    • Assurance of no anticipated risks in completing the study.

    • Benefits include advancing scientific understanding and receiving extra credit.

  • Confidentiality Terms

    • Participants' responses are confidential; identities will not be linked with data analysis or reporting.

    • Contact details provided for any questions regarding the study.

  • Voluntary Participation

    • Participation is voluntary, allowing participants to withdraw at any time, and confirming they are at least 18 years old (or have parental consent).

Stanley Milgram's Obedience Experiment

  • Overview

    • Conducted at Yale University, aimed to study memory and learning.

    • Paid participants ($4 plus travel costs) varying backgrounds were recruited.

    • Emphasized the need for a diverse demographic: factory workers, clerks, professionals, etc.

Milgram's Recruitment Advertisement

  • Eligibility

    • Individuals aged 20-50; excludes high school and college students.

    • Sign-up requirements include basic contact information; specific schedule offered for participation.

Scientific Integrity

  • Do Scientists Cheat?

    • Types of misconduct in research include:

      • Fabricating Data: Reporting false data as factual.

      • Selective Exclusion of Data: Ignoring inconvenient results.

      • Inaccurate Reporting: Failing to fully describe methodologies.

      • Neglecting Confounding Variables: Ignoring outside factors that could affect results.

      • Plagiarism: Using others’ work without credit.