Ethical Challenges in Qualitative Methods to Improve Pediatric Clinical Care: Researcher Perspectives

Objective: The purpose of the current project was to distill guidance for psychology researchers regarding ethical challenges that may arise in the conduct of qualitative research aimed to improve pediatric clinical care. Method: 6 pediatric psychologists with relevant research experience participated in semistructured interviews. Data were analyzed using inductive methods of general thematic analysis and then emerging ethical issues were interpreted within the framework of the American Psychological Association (APA) Ethics Code. Results: 6 broad areas of ethical considerations were derived: Establish competence and ensure research rigor; clearly distinguish research and clinical roles; consider the potential for sample selection bias and demand characteristics; protect research participants, especially minors; attend to common and unique privacy and confidentiality concerns; and respect provider stakeholders and the clinical setting. Researchers consistently identified proactive, rather than reactive approaches, in addressing potential ethical concerns. Some of the themes and subthemes represent typical considerations of psychology research while others speak to the unique elements of qualitative methodologies, pediatric populations, and clinical care improvement. Conclusions: Researchers’ identified ethical considerations aligned with the APA Ethics Code, specifically sections 2 (competence), 3 (human relations), 4 (privacy and confidentiality), and 8 (research and publication). Recommendations were derived to aid in study planning and reflect the importance of considering competencies within the research team, dual relationships, privacy and confidentiality, and the context of clinical qualitative research.