Ethics in Psychology
It is important in the study of psychology to behave in an ethical manner. This 'ethical behaviour' can take many forms, from how one acts when conducting research, to how one treats results from a study, to the conditions one establishes in a research context.
Please read the following SCRIBD document to get a solid sense of ethical guidelines in this field. There are a series of activities below to practise with as you get to know the ethical guidelines in this course. Please READ the section in your text that also overview ethics. It's important to read the section so you can comment on/critique research effectively. Popov et al (2017); p37-42 |
|
1. Psychology ScandalRead the following two article snippets. In your opinion, what is the core ethical issue being reported?
What advice would you give the institution to avoid further scandal and embarassment to the field? What consequence do you feel is fitting for this type of misbehaviour in an academic field? |
2. Ethics case study
Read the following case carefully.
Talk with a partner about the core issues you feel are apparent in the case. |
|
3. Course Companion p21-22: reported by The New York Times, Research by US sociology Dept (1999)
Read the section titled 'Considering Ethics in Research'
Was any direct 'harm' caused by this letter? Explain your reaction.
Was anything helpful gained from this research? Was the study 'worth' the trouble caused? Explain.
Was any direct 'harm' caused by this letter? Explain your reaction.
Was anything helpful gained from this research? Was the study 'worth' the trouble caused? Explain.
4. Harlow's Monkeys
Watch the clip. Consider what Harlow's intentions were and direct applications he wished to make.
Which ethical issues do you see here? Was anything helpful/applicable gained from this research? Was the study 'worth' the harm caused? Be ready to explain your point of view. |
|
5. An NYU Study gone wrong
6. When Patients can't give Informed Consent - proxy consent
Click the link above and read the article. You will know this case study very well. Take notes on key points you read.