Risk of harm in social and behavioral sciences generally falls into which three categories?

Risk of harm in social and behavioral sciences generally falls into which three categories?

• A. Invasion of privacy, breach of confidentiality, and study procedures
• B. Physical harm, financial loss, emotional distress
• C. Confidentiality, data loss, public misinterpretation
• D. Privacy, consent, compensation

Answer: (A)

Risk of harm in social and behavioral research is typically viewed in three main areas: invasion of privacy, breach of confidentiality, and risks from study procedures. Invasion of privacy happens when data collection or observation intrudes into a person’s private life. Breach of confidentiality refers to information being disclosed without permission, which can lead to social, legal, or economic consequences. Study procedures cover harms that come from the methods themselves, such as discomfort from questions, fatigue, or even physical risks, depending on the design. This grouping best captures the common ways participants can be harmed, whereas the other options either miss key domains or mix risk with safeguards.

Risk of harm in social and behavioral research is typically viewed in three main areas: invasion of privacy, breach of confidentiality, and risks from study procedures. Invasion of privacy happens when data collection or observation intrudes into a person’s private life. Breach of confidentiality refers to information being disclosed without permission, which can lead to social, legal, or economic consequences. Study procedures cover harms that come from the methods themselves, such as discomfort from questions, fatigue, or even physical risks, depending on the design. This grouping best captures the common ways participants can be harmed, whereas the other options either miss key domains or mix risk with safeguards.