gms | German Medical Science

Background/Issue: Qualitative research increasingly plays a role in midwifery science and leads to a wide range of questions regarding ethical issues and data protection. Qualitative studies often comprise rich descriptions of study participants. A mishandling of confidence is of particular concern to qualitative researchers, who often face a conflict between conveying detailed, accurate accounts of the social world of the individuals who participated in their studies and protecting their identities. This situation is of special concern for midwives, who are usually persons in a position of trust with regard to the study participants, even in their role as researchers. The law and its implications for qualitative researchers pertain to the collection and use of participants' personal details, the storage of research data, and the dissemination of research results. Still, the issue is very complex and implications regarding ethical issues and the protection of data need to be discussed.

Method/Approach: The presentation will highlight the following questions: Which legal requirements need to be considered concerning the data protection when conducting research? When is an approval by an Ethical Review Board recommended, or required? Which specific ethical issues are most likely associated with midwifery science?