Wybrane problemy i dylematy etyczne w badaniach z udziałem rodziców dzieci z zespołem Aspergera
The ethical problems and dilemmas in research involving parents of children with Asperger’s syndrome

Summary/Abstract: The article is a collection of reflections involving ethical issues, developed by the author over the course of the research process involving parents of children with Asperger’s syndrome. As a point of reference for these considerations, the author has chosen selected entries of the “Sociologist’s code of ethics” of the Polish Sociological Association in the section concerning the researcherparticipant relationship. The article focuses on the ethical problems in terms of the relationship between the researcher and the examined subjects, analysing such questions as: Where is the boundary between the role of the researcher and other possible roles (e.g., that of a consultant, support person, or therapist) or can one go beyond the role of researcher? The author also points out some difficulties arising from adhering to the principle that research must not have a negative impact on the condition of its participants. Should such research only be carried out by sociologists who are also professional psychologists or therapists, and as such are prepared for various unexpected reactions of people facing, often hard to imagine, everyday difficulties with a disabled child? Is it possible to prepare oneself for such unexpected situations that may arise in conversation with parents of children with Asperger’s syndrome? However, there are no simple answers to these questions.

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