Submitted by Bilal Pervaiz

Submitted to Ma’am Zainab Asif

Roll no 191520153

Course PSY316-C

Submission date: 27 January, 2023

 Assignment # 2

Socially Sensitive Research

Socially sensitive research includes studies in which there are potential consequences
or implications, either directly for the participants in the research or for the class of
individuals represented by the research. Sensitive topics are ones that either seem dangerous
or involve a certain amount of risk; as a result, such study may be costly and have unintended
consequences for both participants and researchers. Other delicate subjects include those that
can potentially reveal damning information or are private, stressful, or holy. Social research –
and specifically socially sensitive research – is a highly specialized area of market research.
Clients need research agencies that specialize in this area to feel secure in the handling of the
research project and the reliability of its findings.

Sieber and Stanley suggest four ways in which research can be socially sensitive. Researchers
should make these considerations before conducting a study or developing a theory.

 Research question
 Methodology used
 Institutional Context
 Interpretation and Application of Findings

Examples

 Research that looks at differences between certain races, cultures or genders is

socially sensitive as it could lead to the labelling of certain groups in society.
 A study that looks at the merits of day care for infants compared to full-time parental
care can have broad social implications and be considered socially sensitive.
 Research looking at differences in IQ or mental disorders between races is socially
sensitive as it has the potential to attend to offend people and also could lead to
increased racism.

Advantages of Sociality Sensitive Research

Reduce prejudice
 Socially sensitive research can lessen prejudice against particular societal
concerns or people. The understanding and awareness of society can increase when
psychologists do socially responsible research that is beneficial to society. As a result,
stigma, prejudice, and discrimination decline. So it may be beneficial to perform
socially conscious research in particular social groupings.

Direct Impact on Social Policy and Practices

The development or enhancement of social policies and practises can

occasionally be directly influenced by socially sensitive research. Such adjustments
might be advantageous for society as a whole.

Not all Socially Sensitive Research is Controversial

Socially sensitive research doesn't always have to be contentious, despite

potential consequences. When psychologists undertake study with the right mindset, it
might have a good impact on societal groups.

Widening Research into Other Groups

You may have heard that psychologists primarily study the WEIRD
population for their research (Western, educated, industrialized, rich, democratic). In
addition, a large portion of the study's participants are white college students.
Researchers are assisting in redressing this imbalance and shedding light on other
cultures and communities by doing socially responsible study on other groups.

Disadvantages of socially sensitive research

 Ethical issues may be raised (However useful it is)

 It may be difficult to replicate the research due to its sensitive nature.
 Often socially sensitive research is used to shape public policy and more informally.
 It feeds the media headlines, both of which can have quite an impact on both
individuals and groups in society if the information is used unfairly or
inappropriately.
 Topics may be controversial or produce findings that could lead to discrimination
against groups of people / individuals (mental health, crime, racial differences etc.)