Research
What this domain tests
Research items test APA Standard 8 and the federal human-subjects framework, plus the records issues that arise when a clinician wants to study their own clients.
Core rules and concepts
- 8.01 requires IRB or equivalent approval before research begins; exempt categories still need an institutional determination.
- Informed consent (8.02–8.03) covers purpose, risks, right to withdraw, and limits; deception (8.07) requires that it be justified, that it not cause foreseeable harm, and that debriefing occur as early as feasible (8.08).
- Authorship (8.12) reflects actual contribution; (8.11) plagiarism and (8.13) duplicate publication are standard targets.
- The Common Rule (45 CFR 46) adds subparts for pregnant women and fetuses (B), prisoners (C), and children (D).
- Data sharing (8.14) and reviewer confidentiality (8.15) protect the scientific record.
- HIPAA de-identification uses either safe harbor removal of 18 identifiers or expert determination.
Worked example
A psychologist wants to analyze three years of client outcome scores for a paper. Reasoning: this is research with identifiable data, so IRB review and either consent or an approved waiver of consent are required. De-identification would remove many risks but does not eliminate the need for IRB determination. Psychotherapy notes need specific authorization. Also disclose any conflict of interest and plan how results will be reported even if unfavorable.
Traps that cost marks
- Assuming de-identified data needs no IRB review at all.
- Adding a supervisor as an author who did not contribute.
- Skipping debriefing after deception.
- Failing to plan data storage and destruction.