Research Ethics Boards

Definition

Research Ethics Boards (REBs), also known as Institutional Review Boards (IRBs), are committees responsible for reviewing and approving research proposals to ensure they meet ethical standards and protect the rights and well-being of human participants involved in the research process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. REBs are typically composed of members with diverse backgrounds, including researchers, ethicists, and community representatives, to ensure a comprehensive review of research proposals.
2. The primary role of REBs is to assess the potential risks and benefits of a research study, ensuring that the risks are minimized and the benefits are maximized for participants.
3. REBs have the authority to approve, modify, or reject research proposals based on their evaluation of the ethical considerations and the protection of research participants.
4. Researchers are required to obtain REB approval before conducting any research involving human participants, and they must adhere to the REB's guidelines and requirements throughout the study.
5. The establishment of REBs is mandated by various regulatory bodies and professional organizations to promote ethical research practices and protect the rights and well-being of research participants.

Review Questions

• Explain the purpose and composition of Research Ethics Boards (REBs) in the context of ethical issues in marketing research.
  • Research Ethics Boards (REBs) are committees responsible for reviewing and approving research proposals to ensure they meet ethical standards and protect the rights and well-being of human participants involved in the research process. REBs typically comprise members with diverse backgrounds, including researchers, ethicists, and community representatives, to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the ethical considerations in marketing research. Their primary role is to assess the potential risks and benefits of a research study, ensuring that the risks are minimized and the benefits are maximized for participants. REBs have the authority to approve, modify, or reject research proposals based on their evaluation, and researchers are required to obtain REB approval before conducting any research involving human participants in the field of marketing.
• Analyze the role of Research Ethics Boards (REBs) in protecting vulnerable populations in the context of ethical issues in marketing research.
  • Research Ethics Boards (REBs) play a crucial role in protecting vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children, or individuals with mental or physical disabilities, in the context of ethical issues in marketing research. REBs are responsible for evaluating the potential risks and benefits of research proposals to ensure that vulnerable participants are not subjected to coercion or exploitation. They assess the informed consent process, the recruitment methods, and the data collection procedures to ensure that the rights and well-being of vulnerable populations are safeguarded. REBs may also require additional safeguards, such as the involvement of legal guardians or the use of alternative communication methods, to protect the interests of vulnerable participants in marketing research. By thoroughly reviewing research proposals and ensuring the ethical treatment of all participants, REBs help to uphold the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, and justice in the field of marketing research.
• Evaluate the importance of the ethical principles guiding the work of Research Ethics Boards (REBs) in the context of ethical issues in marketing research.
  • The ethical principles that guide the work of Research Ethics Boards (REBs) are crucial in addressing the ethical issues that may arise in the context of marketing research. These principles, such as respect for persons, beneficence, and justice, provide a framework for REBs to assess the ethical implications of research proposals and ensure the protection of research participants. By evaluating the potential risks and benefits of a study, REBs ensure that the rights and well-being of participants, including vulnerable populations, are prioritized. Additionally, the requirement for informed consent and the consideration of ethical issues related to data collection, storage, and dissemination help to uphold the principles of respect for persons and justice. The diverse composition of REBs, with members from various backgrounds, further strengthens their ability to identify and address ethical concerns from multiple perspectives. Ultimately, the adherence to these ethical principles by REBs is essential in promoting ethical marketing research practices and maintaining public trust in the research process.

Related terms

Informed Consent: The process of obtaining voluntary agreement from an individual to participate in research, after being informed of all aspects of the study that may affect their decision.

Vulnerable Populations: Groups of people who may be more susceptible to coercion or exploitation in research due to factors such as age, mental capacity, socioeconomic status, or health condition.

Ethical Principles: Fundamental moral guidelines that guide the conduct of research, such as respect for persons, beneficence, and justice.