Social Research Association guidelines

“We’ve written this guidance for you to draw on when you face an ethical issue or dilemma in social research. It is intended as a basis for reflection and discussion. Like previous Social Research Association (SRA) guidance on research ethics, it does not offer rigid rules, but illustrates ethical practices to which experienced and respected social researchers generally adhere. Our aim is to encourage you to reflect carefully at all stages of the research process. While the guidance aims to be comprehensive, it does not claim to provide an answer to every ethical dilemma you may face. While it’s important to identify and resolve ethical issues and concerns before research gets underway, it’s not always possible to anticipate these. The guidance is neither exhaustive nor definitive. Rather, we provide clarity about common ethical issues that researchers face, and highlight the importance of reflexivity – that is, checking that your behaviour accords with ethical standards. The guidance reflects ethical norms, policy and law at the time of writing. The SRA will review it as necessary.” (Social Research Association, 2021, p. 1)