The GATE Grind

GATE 2025 XH5 (Psychology) – Question 44

Research Methods and Statistics · Ethics in conducting and reporting research · 1 mark · Multiple select

As per the ethical guidelines of American Psychological Association, which of the option(s) depict(s) unacceptable use of ‘Deception’ in psychology research?

  1. Falsifying the data
  2. Temporary withholding of information about the study from the participants
  3. Not taking informed consent
  4. Use of confederates

Practise this question in The GATE Grind →

Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (A) Falsifying the data; (C) Not taking informed consent

Explanation

The APA code allows limited deception when it is justified by the value of the study and the participants are told afterwards. Briefly withholding information and using confederates are accepted forms of it. Falsifying data and not obtaining informed consent are never acceptable.