How do ethical guidelines vary between human and animal research in psychology?

Ethical guidelines for human research prioritise informed consent, while animal research focuses on minimising harm and suffering.

In psychology, ethical guidelines are established to protect the rights and welfare of both human and animal subjects involved in research. These guidelines, however, vary significantly between human and animal research due to the inherent differences in their nature and the subjects involved.

For human research, the key ethical principles revolve around respect for the autonomy and dignity of the participants. This is often manifested through the requirement of informed consent, where participants must be fully aware of the nature, purpose, and potential risks of the research before they agree to participate. Confidentiality is also a crucial aspect, ensuring that personal information obtained during the research is kept private and anonymous. Furthermore, researchers must ensure that their studies do not cause physical or psychological harm to the participants. If any potential harm is identified, it must be justified by the potential benefits of the research.

On the other hand, ethical guidelines for animal research are primarily concerned with the welfare of the animals. The principle of 'Three Rs' is often applied, which stands for Replacement (using alternatives to animals whenever possible), Reduction (minimising the number of animals used), and Refinement (modifying experimental procedures to minimise harm and improve animal welfare). Animals used in research should be provided with appropriate living conditions, and any pain or distress should be avoided or minimised. Euthanasia, if necessary, should be carried out as humanely as possible.

It's important to note that while the specifics of ethical guidelines may vary, the overarching principle remains the same: to conduct research in a manner that respects the rights and welfare of all subjects involved, whether they are humans or animals. This principle is fundamental to the integrity and credibility of psychological research.