Question 1: Define the term 'informed consent' in the context of psychological research.

Answer: Informed consent is when participants are fully aware of the nature of the research, including any potential risks, and agree to take part voluntarily.

Question 2: Why is it important to protect participants’ confidentiality in psychological studies?

Answer: Protecting confidentiality ensures that participants' personal information is not shared without permission, maintaining their privacy and trust.

Question 3: Describe a scenario where deception might be used ethically in a psychological experiment.

Answer: Deception might be used if informing participants fully about the true purpose of the study could influence their behaviour and invalidate the results. For example, misleading participants about the nature of a task, provided they are debriefed afterwards and their well-being is protected.

Question 4: Explain what debriefing involves and why it is essential after an experiment.

Answer: Debriefing involves explaining the true aims of the study to participants after it is completed, addressing any misconceptions, and ensuring they leave without distress or harm.

Question 5: List two reasons why psychologists should avoid causing harm to their participants.

Answer: Psychologists should avoid causing harm to protect participants’ physical and mental well-being and to uphold ethical standards, ensuring research does not negatively impact individuals.

Question 6: Describe a situation where obtaining consent from a vulnerable participant might require special consideration.

Answer: For example, when working with children or individuals with learning difficulties, researchers must obtain consent from a parent, guardian, or legal representative, and ensure the participant understands to the best of their ability.

Question 7: Sketch a simple diagram illustrating the process of obtaining ethical approval before starting a research project.

Answer: The sketch should include a flowchart with steps: Planning the study → Submitting an ethics application → Review by an ethics committee → Approval granted or denied → Conducting the research after approval.

Question 8: What is meant by 'voluntary participation,' and why is it important?

Answer: Voluntary participation means that participants choose to take part without coercion or pressure, which is important to respect their autonomy and ensure ethical standards.

Question 9: Identify and explain one ethical dilemma a psychologist might face during a study.

Answer: A dilemma could be whether to continue a study if a participant shows signs of distress. The psychologist must balance the scientific value of the research with the participant’s well-being and may need to stop the study to prevent harm.

Question 10: Sketch a brief example of how a researcher should communicate with participants during the consent process.

Answer: The sketch should depict a researcher explaining the study clearly, answering questions, and providing a consent form for participants to sign, ensuring they understand what participation involves.