Internet/Web-based studies provide a way that legitimate scientists increasingly employ to study psychological phenomena. Participating in such a study provides the opprotunity to assist legitimate research, and, in some instances, to receive feedback from psychological tests, at no cost. (To determine if you will receive feedback, and of what kind, read the study's consent form carefully. This information is typically listed in the "benefits" section).
Although most studies are legitimate, the potential for internet fraud always exists. I screen all postings regarding requests for research particpation (typically by requesting e-mails from at least two faculty members from the institution, independent of the researcher at the institution involved).
Despite the screening employed on this site, no one can guarantee complete safety and/or privacy on the web, and for that reason, any participation is at your own risk. Those participating should be vigilant. For example, be suspicious of:
- the absence of contact information for the researcher and (for studies conducted in the United States), contact infomraiton for the institution's Ethics Review Board.
- attempts of the researcher to contact you in ways beyond those described in the consent form
- personal questions that appear to be beyond the scope of the research including especially any questions regarding financial or sexual matters
- any solicitations (beyond answering questions relevant to completing the research)
- being redirected to research sites not plainly associated with the research or researcher
If you have questions about a specific research project, do not hesitate to contact the experimenter or (for studies associated with U.S. institutions) the Ethics Review Board of the institution involved. This contact information should be found on the consent form that you read before you begin the research.
Remember, it is always your right to discontinue participation in a study at any time for any reason.
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