How to answer an Explain SAQ (DP IB Psychology)

Explain one ethical consideration relevant to research into the individual and the group. [9 marks]

Commentary

One ethical consideration relevant to sociocultural research into the individual and the group is the confidentiality of data, especially when research is being conducted into sensitive issues. It could cause psychological harm to the participants if their responses were made public in any way. 

In the UK, under the Data Protection Act, any information obtained about a participant during research, whether given willingly as part of the research or discovered accidentally by the researchers, is confidential unless otherwise agreed in advance. Participants in psychological research have a right to expect that the information they provide will be treated confidentially and, if published, will not be identifiable as coming from them

For example, Inzlicht and Kang’s (2010) study into stereotype threat generated data regarding the participants’ perceived low achievement on a difficult maths test and their subsequent demonstration of aggression  (Experiment 1) and tendency to indulge in over-eating (Experiment 2). Both of these responses demonstrated a lack of self-control in their response to a stereotype threat that lowered their self-esteem. The study itself put participants under stress; if their reactions to the damage to their self-esteem had also been made public in a way that meant they could be identified, then psychological harm could have been done.

Because sociocultural research is often concerned with explaining people’s individual and group behaviour, much of the research is sensitive, as it has to do with personal relationships and interactions between the individual and the group.  Therefore, confidentiality of data is of major importance when conducting this research.

The ethical consideration is immediately identified. 

Details are provided as to what this means and how it might affect the participants.

Relevant research is discussed. Enough details are given to make this relevant to the question. The explanation is linked to the ethical consideration of the confidentiality of data.

The emphasis is placed on why confidentiality is particularly important for sociocultural research, with a link back to the question.

Word Count: 250 words

[9 marks]