Research Ethics with Gender and Sexually Diverse Persons

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Public Health
• Ethics

Background:

• Health and social inequities persist among gender and sexually diverse populations.
• Developing effective policy and practice responses necessitates inclusive research ethics and methods.
• Existing ethical frameworks may not fully address the complexities of this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To articulate 12 ethical principles for researchers conducting social, health, and related research with gender and sexually diverse individuals.
• To promote ethical research that benefits participants across all disciplines.
• To provide a foundation for addressing health and social inequities.

Main Methods:

• Development of 12 ethical principles, termed the 'Montréal Ethical Principles for Inclusive Research.'
• Drawing on scholarship for minoritized communities and the 2018 Global Social Work Statement of Ethical Principles.
• Emphasis on intersectionality (race, ethnicity, colonialism, dis/ability, age) and participant autonomy.

Main Results:

• The Montréal Ethical Principles for Inclusive Research offer a framework for ethical engagement.
• These principles guide researchers in addressing the autonomy of participants throughout the research process.
• The principles are intended for diverse stakeholders, including researchers and ethics committees.

Conclusions:

• Inclusive research ethics are foundational for developing sound data and effective interventions.
• Adherence to these principles can lead to better policy and practice responses to health and social inequities.
• Ethical research practices are crucial for advancing the well-being of gender and sexually diverse persons.