Ethics & Professional Standards Flashcards

What is the principle of informed consent?

Answer: Voluntary agreement with full info

Informed consent means that research participants fully understand the nature, purpose, potential risks, and benefits of a study before voluntarily agreeing to take part. This principle ensures that participation is based on comprehensive knowledge and free will, upholding the autonomy and rights of individuals. It is a fundamental ethical requirement to protect participants from coercion or exploitation.

Why is confidentiality important in research?

Answer: Protect privacy

Confidentiality in research is essential to safeguard the personal information and identities of participants. By ensuring that data is not linked back to individuals or shared publicly without permission, researchers protect privacy, build trust, and encourage honest and open responses. This protection is crucial for maintaining ethical standards and the validity of research outcomes.

What does 'do no harm' mean in sociology?

Answer: Avoid harm

The ethical principle of 'do no harm' (non-maleficence) in sociology mandates that researchers must take all reasonable steps to prevent any physical, psychological, social, or economic harm to their participants. This involves carefully assessing potential risks before and during a study and implementing safeguards to ensure the well-being of individuals involved. It prioritizes the safety and dignity of research subjects above all else.

What is researcher bias?

Answer: Personal bias

Researcher bias occurs when a researcher's personal beliefs, values, or expectations inadvertently influence the design, conduct, or interpretation of a study. This can lead to skewed data collection, selective analysis, or biased conclusions, compromising the objectivity and validity of the research findings. Recognizing and mitigating personal bias is crucial for maintaining scientific rigor.

Why is transparency important in research?

Answer: Openness about methods

Transparency in research means openly disclosing all aspects of the research process, including methods, data collection procedures, analytical techniques, and findings. This openness allows other researchers and the public to scrutinize, replicate, and validate the study, enhancing its credibility and contributing to the cumulative body of knowledge. It fosters trust and accountability in scientific inquiry.

What is a conflict of interest?

Answer: Personal bias

A conflict of interest arises when a researcher's personal relationships, financial interests, or other commitments could potentially influence their professional judgment or objectivity in a study. This can introduce bias into the research process, compromising the integrity and trustworthiness of the findings. Identifying and managing such conflicts is essential for ethical research practice.

What is ethical review in research?

Answer: Review by board

Ethical review in research involves an independent committee, typically an Institutional Review Board (IRB) or ethics committee, assessing a research proposal to ensure it adheres to ethical guidelines. This process protects the rights and welfare of human participants by scrutinizing potential risks, ensuring informed consent, and safeguarding confidentiality. It is a mandatory step for most research involving human subjects.

Why is professionalism important?

Answer: Builds trust

Professionalism in sociology involves adhering to ethical standards, demonstrating competence, and maintaining respectful and responsible conduct in all interactions. This approach fosters trust among participants, colleagues, and the public, which is crucial for gaining cooperation, ensuring data quality, and enhancing the credibility and impact of sociological work. Trust is fundamental for effective research and practice.

What should sociologists do if unethical conduct is observed?

Answer: Report misconduct

Sociologists have an ethical obligation to uphold the integrity of their profession and protect research participants. If unethical conduct is observed, reporting it to appropriate authorities or ethics committees is necessary to address the misconduct, prevent further harm, and maintain professional standards. Ignoring or covering up misconduct undermines the entire field and harms those involved.