AQA GCSE Sociology - Topic 2: Sociological Research Methods

Lesson 5: Ethical Issues in Sociological Research

Key Ethical Considerations in Sociological Research

1. Consent

   • Informed Consent:
     • Essential for sociological research in the UK.
     • Participants must receive clear, understandable information about:
       • Study purpose.
       • Potential risks and benefits.
       • Participants' rights.
     • Information on data sharing and storage must be provided.
     • Participants should have the option to withdraw at any time.
     • Consent must be voluntary, without coercion or undue influence.

2. Confidentiality

   • A fundamental ethical principle in research.
   • Measures to maintain confidentiality include:
     • Using pseudonyms.
     • Limiting access to data.
     • Securing data storage.
   • Participants should be informed of any limitations to confidentiality (e.g., legal requirements for reporting).

3. Harm to Participants

   • Research should not cause physical or emotional harm.
   • Measures to minimize harm:
     • Identifying potential harms and minimizing them.
     • Providing support services and debriefing participants.
     • Reporting any harm to relevant authorities.

Adhering to Ethical Guidelines

• Researchers should follow ethical guidelines from professional bodies like the British Sociological Association.
• Obtain ethical approval from an Institutional Review Board (IRB) or Ethics Committee.
  • IRB/Ethics Committee ensures all ethical considerations are addressed.
• Engage in ongoing monitoring to ensure ethical compliance throughout the research process.