The ethical principles developed by major psychological organizations dictate that potential research participants should be told enough about the experiment to Question 63 options: accurately perceive demand characteristics be able to give their informed consent detect the researcher’s hidden values make inaccurate guesses about its true purpose
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: be able to give their informed consent.
Informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle in psychological research. It ensures that participants are fully aware of the nature, purpose, and potential risks involved in a study before they agree to take part. This principle protects participants’ autonomy and helps maintain the integrity of the research process. By giving participants the necessary information, they can make an informed decision about whether they want to participate or not.
According to major psychological organizations, like the American Psychological Association (APA), researchers must provide participants with clear, honest, and comprehensive information about the study. This includes details about the procedures, potential risks, benefits, and the right to withdraw from the study at any time without any negative consequences. However, in some cases, certain details of the experiment (such as the true purpose) may be withheld to prevent biasing participants’ responses, but they should still be informed about the general nature of the study and any foreseeable risks.
This process of informed consent ensures that participants are not deceived or coerced into participating. It also allows them to assess whether participation aligns with their values and interests. While researchers may sometimes use debriefing procedures to explain the true nature of the experiment after its completion, informed consent is the first and most crucial step in safeguarding participants’ rights.
In contrast, the other options, such as accurately perceiving demand characteristics, detecting the researcher’s hidden values, or making inaccurate guesses about the purpose, do not directly relate to the ethical guideline of informed consent. These factors are secondary to ensuring participants are aware enough to give meaningful consent.
