[Last modified: December, 3 2024 05:03 PM]
Last class we talked about the first case——”Research on Women Survivors of Domestic Abuse in Pakistan”. Conducting research on sensitive topics like domestic abuse demands the highest ethical standards to safeguard the safety and dignity of participants while ensuring the reliability of the study. Below are some solutions we talked for this high-risk issue.
First and foremost, obtaining informed consent is critical. While the participant expressed her willingness to share her story publicly with her real name, the researcher must fully inform her of the potential risks, including retaliation from her abuser or societal backlash. The priority must be the participant’s safety, even if it means overriding her initial preference to disclose her identity. Anonymization—using pseudonyms and removing any identifying details—is an essential measure to mitigate risks. Even if written consent is absent, the researcher should document oral consent in a manner that safeguards the participant’s privacy and security.
The participant’s safety remains paramount throughout the research process. If her story is made public, it could provoke further violence from the abuser. To address this, the researcher must collaborate closely with the NGO running the refuge to establish a comprehensive safety plan. This plan should include access to secure housing, psychological support, and legal aid. Such protective measures should not be limited to the duration of the research but should extend beyond it, ensuring the participant’s long-term well-being.
Equally important is the safety of the researcher. Conducting fieldwork in such a volatile context may expose the researcher to significant risks, especially if the research is perceived as a threat by the abuser or local communities. Therefore, the researcher must take precautions such as choosing secure locations for interviews, maintaining discretion about the research activities, and preparing contingency plans for emergencies.
Cultural sensitivity is another critical aspect. The experiences of domestic abuse survivors are deeply embedded in their social and cultural context. The researcher must approach the study with respect for these cultural dynamics, avoiding misunderstandings or misrepresentations stemming from an external perspective. Collaborating with the NGO and engaging with local stakeholders will enable the researcher to navigate these cultural intricacies while maintaining ethical and respectful research practices.
Finally, the research must undergo rigorous review by an ethics committee and be subjected to continuous oversight throughout its progression. Such scrutiny ensures that ethical standards are upheld and that emerging challenges are promptly addressed.