Ethics in Research

[Spreadbury]

I know all the ethics in research and what they're designed to protect (e.g. respect for persons: respect their dignity, rights, beliefs and so on) but I have trouble fluently explaining why we need the ethic and give a specific explanation as to why we need that particular ethic- rather than just a general statement about why we need all ethics.

I hope this makes sense... an example of a response would be much appreciated

[Glockmeister]

Ok yep, I'll give you one.

Confidentiality

Much of the research that you may require you to collect details about the participants that may be rather sensitive, for example, perhaps you're collecting data on whether HIV having effect on brain function (I've made that one up). Now, being diagnosed with HIV is something that is pretty heavy and the participant in question may not want people to know, for various reasons (perhaps he or she is closeted homosexual and fears that if people were to find out that he or she has HIV, they may suspect that he or she is a homosexual, and we know there are still quite some heavy elements of homophobia in the community). This is why it is essential that the data that you collect is kept confidential.

[Spreadbury]

thank you, very helpful