Final answer:
The purpose of debriefing is to clarify any misconceptions about the study, address its true nature and purpose, especially after any deception, thus ensuring participants' understanding and respect. It is a critical part of ethical research standards, alongside informed consent and IRB approval.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of research ethics involving human participants, the purpose of debriefing is to provide a thorough explanation about the research after it has concluded. This includes revealing any instances of deception and ensuring participants understand the purpose and usage of the collected data, ultimately helping them to leave the study with their dignity intact and a sense that their contributions were valuable. For example, if deception was necessary during the study to maintain its integrity, a full debriefing would include a comprehensive account of the purposes of the experiment, the reasons why deception was used, and any other relevant information about the study.
When participants are involved in a study, there are several key ethical concerns that must be managed. One of the most important is obtaining their informed consent prior to starting the research. Informed consent means that participants are fully aware of the research they're participating in, including any potential risks or benefits, ensuring that they agree to partake voluntarily. Another ethical requirement is the review of the study proposal by an Institutional Review Board (IRB), which oversees the safety and ethical considerations of the research.