Psychology heavily relies on human-focused research to learn more about our brains and actions. Yet, it’s critical that we always respect these studies’ subjects and guard their rights. That’s where the Institutional Review Board (IRB) steps in.
Other names for the IRB are Independent Ethics Committee (IEC), Ethical Review Board (ERB), or Research Ethics Board (REB). Often found in organizations, the IRB inspects methods suggested for any study involving people. Their goal is simple: guarantee ethical handling of projects and safeguard subjects from harm.
Wondering when the IRB came into existence in psychology? Look back to the mid-20th century. That’s when worries about human subjects’ ethical treatment in studies emerged. To tackle these fears, the first guidelines for ethically conducting human research were born. These guidelines eventually led to the structured groups, known as IRBs, tasked with checking and approving study plans.
What does the IRB do? They scrutinize the morality of the applied research techniques, encouraging fully informed and voluntary joining from possible subjects, and boosting participant safety. They examine study plans intensely, looking at related materials to prevent either physical or psychological harm to human subjects.
Health and social sciences fields often use Institutional Review Boards (IRBs). This includes areas like psychology. For studies on new medicines, personal or social behaviors, or healthcare delivery, IRB approval is essential. These boards make sure research aligns with rules and codes, both nationwide and globally, to ensure an ethical research approach.
IRBs have helped in promoting ethical practices in psychology research. Now, researchers have a set procedure they must follow to safeguard participant rights and wellbeing. This method involves getting informed consent, ensuring confidentiality, and reducing any potential risks.
The IRB review process involves a thorough check of research plans. The board calculates the possible benefits and dangers of the study. They do a benefit-risk analysis to decide whether the research can go ahead. This analysis helps ensure that the positive impacts of the research surpass any potential harm to the participants.
Keep in mind, not all human-related research needs IRB approval. Studies like those on teaching approaches, spontaneous research like oral histories, journalistic research, and studies by private individuals might not need IRB approval. Still, it’s always wise to seek ethical advice and stick to moral principles, even when IRB approval isn’t required.
Wrapping things up, Institutional Review Boards’ formation in psychology marks a crucial step forward. They ensure research involving humans stays ethical. These boards are key in defending participants’ rights and boosting ethical research habits. By carrying out in-depth evaluations and weighing up risks and benefits, IRBs push psychology’s knowledge boundaries, keeping participants’ welfare front and center.
