Consider The Ethics Of The Following Research Scenario

Consider The Ethics Of The Following Research Scenarioa Researcher Wa

Consider the ethics of the following research scenario: A researcher wants to understand the relationship between horror movies and memory in teenagers. The researchers had teens ages 14 through 17 view various types of horror movies over the course of six hours (roughly 3 movies). Prior to viewing, the teens were given visual and auditory memory tasks. After viewing, they were readministered tests of visual and auditory memory. The researchers found that after six hours of viewing horror films, visual memory declined but auditory memory remained the same.

Imagine you are a member of the IRB reviewing this study before it is conducted. What issues might it have with the research? What are the risks to the participants in the study? Can you think of any other way that this study could be designed to reduce the risks to the participants?

Paper For Above instruction

The research scenario described raises several ethical considerations that an Institutional Review Board (IRB) must evaluate before approving the study. The primary issues concern the welfare and rights of the teenage participants, the potential psychological risks of viewing horror films, and the scientific validity of the study design. Addressing these concerns and proposing modifications to mitigate risks are essential steps toward ensuring ethical compliance.

One of the most pressing ethical issues pertains to the vulnerability of the adolescent population involved in the study. Teenagers aged 14 to 17 are considered minors and are therefore more susceptible to harm, both psychologically and emotionally. The requirement to watch multiple horror movies over a six-hour period could induce distress, fear, anxiety, or other negative emotional reactions. Horror films are intentionally designed to evoke fear and suspense; prolonged exposure might exacerbate these responses, potentially leading to lasting psychological effects such as increased anxiety or sleep disturbances. An IRB would need to assess whether the potential psychological risks have been minimized and whether the participants’ emotional well-being is adequately protected.

Another critical concern involves informed consent. Since minors are involved, parental or guardian consent must be obtained, along with assent from the minors themselves. The process should ensure that both parties understand the nature of the study, the potential risks, and the participant's right to withdraw at any time without penalty. If the horror movies contain particularly violent or disturbing content, safeguards must be in place to prevent undue distress.

The study’s design also raises questions regarding the potential for short-term cognitive impacts. The finding that visual memory declined after viewing horror movies suggests a temporary impairment. While this may be an interesting scientific result, it must be ensured that such cognitive disruptions are not prolonged or harmful. Without measures to monitor participants post-exposure, the IRB would be concerned about possible adverse effects, especially if a participant experiences intense fear, sleep disturbances, or panic reactions during the viewing.

Additionally, there is an ethical obligation to consider whether the research is justified by its potential benefits. If the knowledge gained can compensate for the risks, the study might be justified; however, if the risks are significant and the benefits minimal, the IRB may recommend modifications or reject the proposal.

To reduce the risks associated with this study, several modifications could be implemented. First, screening procedures should be used to exclude participants with prior trauma or anxiety disorders that might be exacerbated by horror films. Second, the study could incorporate debriefing sessions that help participants process their emotional reactions and alleviate distress. Providing psychological support or counseling resources during and after participation could further mitigate adverse effects.

Third, the duration and intensity of horror film viewing could be reduced. Instead of a six-hour session, the viewing could be broken into shorter segments with breaks in between, allowing participants to recover mentally. The selection of less intense horror content or content specifically screened for age appropriateness can also help reduce potential harm.

Fourth, the study could include continuous monitoring of participants’ emotional and physiological responses during viewing, such as heart rate or self-reported anxiety levels. This monitoring would enable researchers to identify signs of significant distress promptly and intervene if necessary.

Finally, ensuring that the data collection and reporting respect confidentiality is essential, especially given the sensitive nature of emotional reactions to frightening content. Protecting participants’ privacy encourages openness and honesty during debriefing and follow-up.

In conclusion, while this study offers valuable insights into the relationship between horror movies and memory, its ethical execution depends on careful consideration of risks and proactive measures to protect young participants. An IRB’s primary role is to ensure that the potential scientific benefits justify any risks, and that participant welfare is prioritized through appropriate safeguards and transparent procedures.

References

• Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2019). Principles of Biomedical Ethics (8th ed.). Oxford University Press.
• Levine, R. J. (2016). Ethics and Regulation of Research Involving Human Subjects. New York: Springer.
• National Commission for the Protection of Human Subjects of Biomedical and Behavioral Research. (1979). The Belmont Report.
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• National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Protecting Minors in Research. NIMH Publication.
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