Effect on Current Research

How do the study’s ethical problems affect researchers now?

The Tearoom trade study initiated the discussion of ethics, privacy, and informed consent. Informed consent is permission granted in the knowledge of the possible consequences, typically that which is given by a patient to a doctor for treatment with full knowledge of the possible risks and benefits. In the event of research, it is simply a document that ensures all participants are aware of all risks and can make an informed decision on whether to participate or not.

The Tearoom trade study conducted by Sociologist Laud Humphreys violated right to privacy. Humphreys used disguise, false identity, deception, and recorded personal information unbeknownst to the participants. The topic being researched was very sensitive and illegal. Today, the breaking of these ethic laws is subject but not limited to the suspension of any medical licenses, being charged with malpractice, being sued, and possibly serving jail time. An unethical research study such as the Tearoom trade would never be allowed to be published today.

Researchers today must ensure all participants are aware of the study and its goals. When using human subjects, it is mandatory an IRB approved consent form is signed and understood by all parties. Unethical studies such as Tearoom Trade study are reasons this is in place.

What were the results of exposing the study’s problems? Could this study be revised to be conducted ethically? If so, how? If not, why?

The results of exposing the study’s problems were what I believe anyone might have predicted. The tearoom trade study researched a very controversial and intense topic especially during that time. A lot of people were upset seeing it as an ultimate violation of privacy and belied the sociologist deserved jail time, while other were intrigued and wanted to learn more. Exposing this study did decrease the arrests of homosexuals and tearoom raids. Humphreys argued that this was because his study provided beneficial understanding of human nature and behavior.

It is not believed that this study could be revised and conducted ethically. This is said because it is a very controversial topic, exchanging sex in a public facility is illegal, and this raises concern for men who are not openly homosexual. The biggest reasons are the legality issues and finding participants who are willing when they are engaging in something that is supposed to be kept secret. That wouldn’t make a successful research study.