Reflecting on the learning experience:
Too often, discussions of research ethics focus on the steps needed to avoid fraud or protect human subjects. These topics, while essential, are only a fraction of the considerations for ethical research, and excessive attention to them can obscure other important and meaningful decisions. Ethical dilemmas are inherent throughout the research process, from the choice about what to study and how to study it through to analysis and dissemination of findings. Attention to these considerations is especially important for researchers in social work who, by their professional discipline, code of ethics, or research foci are expected to demonstrate particular sensitivity to vulnerable populations, issues of social justice, conflicts of interest, and respect for dignity and privacy (A.M. Sobocan, T. Bertotti, K.S. Gottfried, 2018). Social work researchers hold themselves to ethical standards for social science and biomedical research involving human beings, which are compatible with social work ethics. The ethical dilemmas that derive from social work research involving vulnerable children. The main concern is how to balance the protection of children while progressing their participation. Several substitute mechanisms were put in place for protecting underage children. In particular, children were informed explicitly that participation was voluntary, they could pull out without risk of sanction, and their anonymity and confidentiality was guaranteed (T. Gotsiridze & K. Lekeshvili, 2021).
Addressing the implicit ethics of research, (Guillemin and Gillan, 2002) delineate three relevant subtypes: procedural ethics (seeking approval from a relevant ethics committee to undertake research), ethics in practice (the everyday ethical issues that arise in doing the research), and research ethics (as articulated in professional codes of ethics or conduct).
Supporting evidence: This evidence can be seen in the interview between John and the social worker, where the social worker conducted an interview between herself and the student.
CONSULTED REFERENCES
Gotsiridze, T & Lekeshvili. K, 2021. Ethical considerations for Social Work Research with vulnerable children and the families.
Guillemin & Gillan, 2002.
Sobocan, M, A; Bertotti, T; Gottfried. K-S, 2018. European Journal of Social Work.