Ethical issues in social science research with special reference to sexual behaviour research

Social science research has long been concerned with ethical issues, but agencies that review and fund research are increasingly attentive to assuring that ethical considerations are being fully addressed. Research on sexual behaviour, a topic that has generated much recent attention worldwide as scientists confront the epidemics of adolescent pregnancy, AIDS and STDs, raises ethical issues that are worthy of special attention. Beginning with the philosophical origin of ethical principles that guide research, this paper discusses the key ethical issues to be considered when designing and conducting social science research. Included are special precautions for research on adolescents, the purpose and properties of an informed consent procedure, and the formation and function of an ethical review committee.