Ethical fundamentals in the social research process

Abstract

In the social sciences, working with affected or vulnerable people or groups, implies for those who investigate, to use some tools in order to mitigate the impact of their studies on those who relive traumatic episodes, with the purpose of provide safeguards on which it attracts attention.

This article is based on the background in the development of ethical principles in social research to later address different aspects of bioethics and research without harm, which serves as a context to reflect on the work of ethics committees and their sense of qualification of this dimension in the research processes.

Additionally, the text addresses tools required in the application of research instruments such as informed consent, its meaning, scope, as well as basic ethical and procedural requirements. It also addresses the concept of situated ethics, from qualitative social research, and the way sensitive stories should be treated. The last section deals with presenting some reflections on interviews or different research tools that are carried out with vulnerable groups, or with constitutionally protected populations. It is emphasized that in social sciences research processes must give rise to social empowerment.