What are the three general categories of risk of harm in social and behavioral sciences?

The correct answer identifies the specific risks that can arise during research involving human participants in the social and behavioral sciences. The categories mentioned—invasion of privacy, breach of confidentiality, and study procedures—accurately encapsulate the ethical concerns that researchers must navigate.

Invasion of privacy refers to situations where a participant's personal space, feelings, or information may be intruded upon without proper consent or awareness. This aspect is crucial for maintaining the trust and dignity of the participants involved in research.

Breach of confidentiality pertains to the obligation researchers have to protect the identities and private details of their participants. Ensuring that sensitive information is safeguarded is a fundamental ethical responsibility in research, as it affects participant trust and the integrity of the data collected.

Study procedures encompass the ethical considerations tied to the methods used throughout the research process. This includes ensuring that all procedures adhere to ethical guidelines that prioritize participant well-being and minimize risks.

By addressing these three categories, researchers can better design their studies to mitigate potential harm to participants while maintaining ethical standards in their work. Recognizing these risks is critical for ensuring rigorous ethical oversight in social and behavioral science research.