Recommendations for the responsible use and communication of race and ethnicity in neuroimaging research

  • 0Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA. carlosc2@usc.edu.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Biomedical research using large datasets must account for structural inequities like racism that influence neurodevelopmental findings. This paper offers guidance to researchers on ethically handling race and ethnicity to avoid bias and stigmatization.

Area Of Science

  • Neuroscience
  • Genetics
  • Public Health

Background

  • Large-scale human biomedical datasets offer insights into brain and behavioral development.
  • Observed patterns may reflect structural inequities, such as structural racism, contributing to health disparities.
  • Existing research practices can perpetuate harmful biases related to race and ethnicity.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To provide guidance for biomedical researchers on conceptualizing, contextualizing, and communicating race and ethnicity in studies.
  • To encourage critical self-reflection on the use of race and ethnicity in research design and analysis.
  • To promote research practices that mitigate bias and avoid stigmatizing historically minoritized groups.

Main Methods

  • The paper reviews current practices in biomedical research concerning race and ethnicity.
  • It offers recommendations for study design, model specification, and statistical analysis.
  • Guidance is provided on communicating research findings ethically and responsibly.

Main Results

  • Rethinking the use of race and ethnicity in research is crucial for accurate interpretation of neurodevelopmental data.
  • Implementing specific practices can help avoid the stigmatization of minoritized populations.
  • Engaging in bias-counteracting research practices is essential for equitable scientific advancement.

Conclusions

  • Biomedical research must address the impact of structural inequities on neurodevelopmental studies.
  • Researchers need clear guidelines for ethically incorporating race and ethnicity to ensure scientific rigor and equity.
  • Adopting recommended practices will lead to more responsible and impactful research on diverse populations.