Use these guidelines in disaster research
Those affected are not necessarily vulnerable, but be watchful for potential problems
A group of mental health professionals, trauma researchers, ethicists and IRB representatives have published a set of ethical guidelines for research with victims of disasters. They include:
- Assuming that those affected by disaster have the capacity to provide true informed consent to research. Questions about individual participants' ability to give consent should be determined on a case-by-case basis, using assessment tools such as the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Clinical Research (McCAT-CR).
- Not making blanket assumptions that disaster-affected populations are "vulnerable" per se for regulatory purposes. But research proposals should consider the psychological state of individuals and have plans in place to refer them for mental health help, if necessary.
- Reviewing proposals based on the level of risk, the nature of the research and the uncertainty of risk vs. benefit. This may require imposing additional safeguards for participants;
- Recognizing the critical need for more research on the risks and benefits of participation in disaster-related research;
- Wherever possible, including representatives of the community where the research is being conducted in planning and implementation of studies.
- Being extremely clear to participants about whether a proposed study has any therapeutic benefit. IRBs should take care to ensure that informed consent procedures reduce the possibility of therapeutic misconception.
- Conducting research in a safe, controlled environment.
- Making explicit provisions for confidentiality and protection of data.
- Making results of the research available to participants.
- Coordinating among researchers and IRBs to help minimize repetitive studies and participant burden.
Reference
Collogan LK, et al. (2004) Ethical issues pertaining to research in the aftermath of disaster. Journal of Traumatic Stress. 17(5), 363-372.
A group of mental health professionals, trauma researchers, ethicists and IRB representatives have published a set of ethical guidelines for research with victims of disasters.Article Limit Reached
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