40 Part 1 Foundations of Human Development
Researchers are creative in using the scientific method. Sometimes they
compare groups of various ages at the same time (cross-sectional studies).
Sometimes groups are only observed and observations are recorded
(naturalistic experiments).
Ethical Research
Although creativity is important, researchers must follow ethical standards.
This means they must ensure the people being observed are safe and not harmed,
either during the experiment or afterward, 2-15. Information gathered must be
kept confidential. The research must be considered moral. Those observed
must give their permission. Studies involving children must be extra dili-
gent in making sure they follow ethical standards. Researchers must obtain
permission from the child’s parents or guardians, and cause no harm. The
scientific method demands truthfulness and diligence in seeking to further
people’s understanding.
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2-15
This researcher is explaining the safety involved in her research, which is an
important part of following ethical standards.