This work presents the kinds of ethical dilemmas that typically occur in different studies of children, and then provides 65 real-world cases from experts who study children's mental health to offer practical advice for professionals and students in research methods.
Studies involving children with mental, emotional, or behavioral problems--or their families--have to meet certain standards of research ethics. This book contains chapters on the kinds of ethical dilemmas that typically occur in different types of studies of children, and then presents 65 real-world cases from experts who study children's mental health. These experts offer practical suggestions for how to handle these dilemmas. Chapters on the perspectives of parents, regulators, and bioethicists provide additional points of view on these issues. Written in down-to-earth language, this book will be useful for professionals who study children, for those who train students in research methods, and for parents who are thinking about participating in research studies.
In attempting to bridge the apparent gap between ethics and science, the editors close this volume on a note commonly sounded by researchers: more research is needed. Yet in this area, a new kind of research is required. The science of scientific ethics must be developed and expanded, and better understanding of the determinants and circumstances under which children can comprehend and evaluate risks and benefits is needed. Likewise, fuller knowledge of the contextual factors affecting children's and families' consent to participate in research is essential. In particular, development of scales to assess children's ability to comprehend risk-benefit issues, studies of families' reactions to research procedures, and empirical data on the impact of various forms of participant reimbursement will advance both science and ethics. This volume should spur further research, serving as a guide for current investigators, participating families, institutional review boards, and policymakers who shape the research enterprise.
"This is by far the most comprehensive and informative book on the important topic of ethical considerations in mental health research. It provides a guide to both practical and conceptual considerations. It will be an invaluable reference work for both investigators and members of Institutional Review Boards and all who consider and advise on the ethical conduct of mental health research in children."—David Shaffer F.R.C.P. (Lond), F.R.C. Psych (Lond)Irving Philips Professor of Child Psychiatry, Professor of Psychiatry & Pediatri"From its engaging opening chapter linking ethical inquiry and scientific pursuit, to its thoughtful final synthesis, this volume reflects an impressive blend of scientific and humane values. The book captures beautifully the delicate process of balancing the study of children with protection of their well-being. Combining both a rich 'casebook' of 61 real-life research examples and an array of rich topical chapters by seasoned investigators, this book manages to both instruct and inspire. The volume is a valuable resource for all who want children to benefit from both the product and the process of their research."—John R. Weisz, PhDProfessor, Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles"Hoagwood, Jensen, and Fisher have produced a definitive interdisciplinary compendium that will prove invaluable to anyone designing research with children and adolescents or teaching about research ethics. The volume is rich in case material and addresses both subtle and obvious ethical issues across psychosocial and biological domains. The editors and contributors do a superb job of integrating child development, research design, and ethical principles in clear and readily useable style. This is 'must reading' for anyone who plans to conduct research with child or adolescent participants."—Gerald P. Koocher, PhDChief of Psychology, Children's Hospital, Boston, Associate Professor of Psychol
