Research Involving Sensitive or Illegal Information

• Information about sexual attitudes, preferences, practices;
• Information about the use of alcohol, drugs, or other addictive products;
• Information that could damage an individual's financial standing, employability, or reputation within the community;
• Information in a subject's medical record that could lead to social stigmatization or discrimination; and/or
• Information about a subject's psychological well-being or mental health.

This list is not exhaustive. If you think the information you will be requesting might be sensitive, take special precautions to protect the participant.

• Be especially attuned to participants' emotions and feelings. If a participant appears to be distressed, change the topic to lighten the mood. Then, politely ask the participant if he/she would like to take a break or discontinue participation.
• Report any problems to the principal investigator of the research. Major issues must be reported to the IRB as an adverse event. Reporting problems will help to identify potential improvements to the research protocol.
• If you feel the participant is in need of counseling, provide him or her with a list of local counseling services. You must inform participants that the cost associated with counseling would be the responsibility of the participant, and not that of the research team, research project, or Virginia Tech.
• If you believe the participant is a potential threat to him/herself or others, you are obligated to inform the authorities. Participants must be informed of this upfront! The consent form is the best place to provide this type of statement.
• If you as a researcher ever suspect that a child is in danger due to abuse or neglect, you are obligated to contact the Department of Social Services and report the concern. This is in compliance with the mandatory reporting laws of the state of Virginia.
• If possible, collect data anonymously. For example, use an anonymous online survey or mail survey.
• If you cannot collect data anonymously, store data documents anonymously (participants cannot be linked to information directly or through study codes). At a minimum, store data documents (e.g., responses to interview questions) without identifying information (e.g., participant's name, address, etc.). Instead use study codes.
• Some studies involving collection of sensitive data may qualify to obtain a Certificate of Confidentiality.
• This type of study may involve more than minimal risk which may necessitate Full Board review. View deadlines.

Risks Section

• Be specific regarding potential risks including psychological, social, legal, economic, dignity and physical. Remember the potential of emotional distress while completing these surveys;
• Provide an explanation of the study’s efforts to reduce the potential risks.

Anonymity / Confidentiality Section

• Provide subject with contact information of professional counselors within the area that he/she may contact;
• Inform subjects that any expense from the counselor will be incurred by the subject;
• Inform subjects that if he/she provides responses to the survey that indicate the potential of harm to themselves or others, the researcher is obligated to report to the appropriate authorities; and
• Provide a thorough explanation of how the study will ensure confidentiality of this sensitive information.

When collecting information from participants about illegal activities, it may be adventageous to obtain a Certificate of Confidentiality.

Also, researchers should make every attempt to collect data anonymously or to maintain confidentiality.