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How the observed create ethical dilemmas for the observers: Experiences from studies conducted in clinical settings in the UK and Australia

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  • Melissa J. Bloomer
  • Maggie Doman
  • Ruth Endacott

Abstract

Observational research has a history of controversy, particularly when the research is conducted in a clinical setting. Existing ethical approval processes focus on protecting participants and the researcher's responsibilities, in particular where vulnerable populations are concerned. In this study, the authors explored the less overt and often understated ethical challenges that can arise when conducting observational research in a clinical setting. Reflecting on two recent studies conducted in different clinical settings, the authors described the challenges of blurring role boundaries, the risk of collecting redundant data, and the impact of reverse power relationships between researchers, clinicians, and managers. From their experiences, the authors suggested that the preparatory work undertaken with clinicians and managers onsite, which typically focuses on how the researchers will maintain the ethical robustness of the research and protect the rights of participants and the vulnerable, should also highlight the sometimes overlooked ethical issues associated with participatory research. This can help ensure that participants and managers understand the scope and limitations of the research, and consider the ways in which the observed can influence the researcher and the findings.

Suggested Citation

  • Melissa J. Bloomer & Maggie Doman & Ruth Endacott, 2013. "How the observed create ethical dilemmas for the observers: Experiences from studies conducted in clinical settings in the UK and Australia," Nursing & Health Sciences, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 15(4), pages 410-414, December.
  • Handle: RePEc:wly:nuhsci:v:15:y:2013:i:4:p:410-414
    DOI: 10.1111/nhs.12052
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Oeye, Christine & Bjelland, Anne Karen & Skorpen, Aina, 2007. "Doing participant observation in a psychiatric hospital-- Research ethics resumed," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 65(11), pages 2296-2306, December.
    2. Melissa J. Bloomer & Wendy Cross & Ruth Endacott & Margaret O'Connor & Cheryle Moss, 2012. "Qualitative observation in a clinical setting: Challenges at end of life," Nursing & Health Sciences, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 14(1), pages 25-31, March.
    3. Murphy, Elizabeth & Dingwall, Robert, 2007. "Informed consent, anticipatory regulation and ethnographic practice," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 65(11), pages 2223-2234, December.
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