The Harmful Effects of Social Research and the Universal Declaration on Bioethics and Human Rights

Results of a National Survey of Social Scientists in Mexico

Abstract

Risks and harms comprise a controversial topic in health sciences social research: they are minimised, denied, or not communicated to study participants. Article 4 of the UNESCO Universal Declaration on Bioethics and Human Rights stipulates the need to minimise harm, but this provision does not appear to refer directly to social sciences. Objectives: 1) to understand the harmful effects in social research; and 2) to describe the application of Article 4 to harm reduction in this field of research. Methods: We conducted an internet-based survey with social research investigators, asking about their experience and opinions regarding ethical practices in social research studies. Results: Respondents indicated that harmful effects were considered in terms of the repercussions of certain actions and decisions of the investigator, confirms risks such as the misuse and/or manipulation of information, the generation of false expectations of participants, the invasion of their space and privacy. The harms were disclosure of identity, violation of rights and the generation of stigma and prejudice; it brings in other types of harmful effects such as the self-interest of the researcher or his/her institution. Discussion: Social researchers observe Article 4, but this study questions aspects of the social and cultural context and their ethical repercussions.