Dear Advisor,
b b b b b b b b b b As you are aware, I am conducting research that seeks to investigate
potentially racist hiring practices. However, I fear that if the true nature of the
study were known, it could influence the results. With that in mind, I have
reviewed the ethical principles and standards set by the APA. I believe that I have
come up with a couple of solutions that I would like your opinion on.
b b b b b b b b b b First, I feel that the use of deception could be a viable option. According
to section 8.07(a) Deception in Research, psychologists can use deceptive
methods when nondeceptive methods are not feasible. Deception is necessary
when knowledge of the study would affect its scientific and application value
(American Psychological Association, 2017 With my deception, I would tell the
participants that I am interested in the interview processes that various
companies use when hiring new employees. At the same time, according to
Principle C: Integrity, it is important to address the deception. By addressing the
deception, I would correct any mistrust that may have been the result of
deception (American Psychological Association, 2017). This deception would be
corrected during the debriefing portion of the study. The participant would be
made aware of the nature of the study. If there was mistrust or any other ill
effects, I would use my best effort to ensure they are properly resolved.
b b b b b b b b b b Another solution is the use of confederates. We could bring in individuals
belonging to different ethnicities. Then, have them apply for a job. As they go in
for the interview, they would be equipped with a concealed audio recorder.
According to Principle B: Fidelity and Responsibility, psychologists must clarify
participant roles and obligations. It would be made clear to the confederate that
the “wire” would be used to listen to how the interviewer spoke to them. These
confederates would behave the same way they would if they were not wearing a
wire. Any confederate not comfortable in doing so would not be required to
participate. Abiding by Section 8.04(a) Client/Patient, Student, and Subordinate
Research Participants, there would be no adverse consequences for those that
choose not to participate (American Psychological Association, 2017). Informed
consent from the interviewer is not an issue either. Section 8.03 Informed
Consent for Recording Voices and Images in Research states, that informed
consent can be obtained during the debriefing process. If by chance, the
interviewer does not consent, his or her data will not be used in the study
American Psychological Association, 2017).
Sincerely,
Reference
American Psychological Association. (2017, January 1). Ethical principles of
psychologists and code of conduct. American Psychological Association.
https://www-apa-org.ezproxy.liberty.edu/ethics/code/index
