Dear Advisor,
c c c c c c c c c 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.
c c c c c c c c c 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.
c c c c c c c c c 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
