Final answer:
The described term, 'intentional deception or misrepresentation,' is defined as fraud. The correct option is (b).
Step-by-step explanation:
“Intentional deception or misrepresentation that the individual or entity makes knowing that the misrepresentation could result in some unauthorized benefit to the individual, or the entity, or to some other party” is defined as b. Fraud.
Fraud is a deliberate act of dishonesty that is undertaken with the intention to gain an unlawful advantage or to mislead another party.
It contrasts with other concepts such as malpractice, which is professional negligence, or misfeasance, which refers to a lawful act done in an improper way.
In research contexts, such as psychology experiments, the use of deception might be necessary to ensure the integrity of the study, for example, to prevent participants' foreknowledge from influencing their behavior or responses.
However, this form of deception in research must be followed by a thorough debriefing, where participants are informed about the true nature of the study, the necessity for deception, and how their data will be used.
It should also be ensured that the deception does not cause harm to the participants, aligning with the principle of nonmaleficence.