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Evaluate Watson and Rayner (1920) and Sherif et al - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 3
Question 4
Evaluate Watson and Rayner (1920) and Sherif et al. (1954/1961) in terms of ethical issues.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Evaluate Watson and Rayner (1920) and Sherif et al - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 3
Step 1
Watson and Rayner (1920)
Answer
Watson and Rayner conducted the Little Albert experiment, which is often criticized for ethical issues. One major concern is the lack of informed consent; Little Albert was a child and his mother was not adequately informed about the nature and potential risks of the study. Additionally, the experiment involved inducing fear in the child, which raises serious ethical concerns regarding psychological harm.
Furthermore, the experiment lacked proper risk management, as there were no measures in place to mitigate the potential psychological damage caused by exposing Little Albert to frightening stimuli. The researchers also exhibited a lack of competence related to the ethical conduct of research with vulnerable populations, failing to consider the psychological impact on Little Albert.
Step 2
Sherif et al. (1954/1961)
Answer
In the Robbers Cave study conducted by Sherif et al., ethical concerns also arise, particularly regarding informed consent and the protection of participants. While principals and teachers granted permission for participants, the parents were not fully informed prior to the experiment, raising questions about informed consent.
Some children reported emotional distress during the interventions, suggesting that the study could have caused harm. The researchers aimed to manage risks but lacked adequate procedures to protect participants from psychological harm.
Sherif’s methodology involved experimental techniques that were not compliant with modern ethical standards, although at the time, the extent of ethical review was less stringent.