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Outline and explain two ethical issues that sociologists using primary quantitative methods would have to consider when carrying out their research. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 3
Question 5
Outline and explain two ethical issues that sociologists using primary quantitative methods would have to consider when carrying out their research.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline and explain two ethical issues that sociologists using primary quantitative methods would have to consider when carrying out their research. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 3
Step 1
Ethical Issue 1: Informed Consent
Answer
Sociologists using primary quantitative methods must ensure that participants provide informed consent before participating in the research. This means that participants should be fully aware of the nature of the study, what their participation involves, and any potential risks. Researchers need to communicate the purpose of the research clearly and ensure that participants understand their right to withdraw at any time without any consequences. Failing to obtain informed consent can lead to ethical breaches and undermine the trust in the research process.
Step 2
Ethical Issue 2: Confidentiality
Answer
Another critical ethical issue is the confidentiality of participants' data. Sociologists must protect the privacy of individuals by ensuring that any data collected is kept confidential and is anonymized where necessary. This involves safeguarding sensitive information and limiting access to the data to authorized personnel only. Breaching confidentiality can harm participants and deter future involvement in sociological research, impacting the integrity of the research field as a whole.