What are the main ethical issues in human subjects research within Psychology? In Psychology, the following are the main issues of discussion when conducting the research which involves humans: Informed Consent, Debrief, Protection of Participants, Deception, Confidentiality, Withdrawal. These issues are guided by the characteristics below.

List of main ethical issues / characteristics in human subjects research within Psychology

This list presents some of the most important characteristics that psychologists take into consideration when designing their research. The most direct ethical concern of the scientist is to prevent harm to the research participants.

• Trust and positive rapport are created between the researcher and the participant.
• The rights of both the experimenter and participant are considered, and the relationship between them is mutually beneficial.
• The experimenter treats the participant with concern and respect and attempts to make the research experience a pleasant and informative one.
• Before the research begins, the participant is given all information relevant to his or her decision to participate, including any possibilities of physical danger or psychological stress.

• The participant is given a chance to have questions about the procedure answered, thus guaranteeing his or her free choice about participating.
• After the experiment is over, any deception that has been used is made public, and the necessity for it is explained.
• The experimenter carefully debriefs the participant, explaining the underlying research hypothesis and the purpose of the experimental procedure in detail and answering any questions.
• The experimenter provides information about how he or she can be contacted and offers to provide information about the results of the research if the participant is interested in receiving it.