Which event is cited as an example of emotional or psychological harm during research?

The study of sexual assault victims is a strong example of emotional or psychological harm during research because it often involves sensitive topics that can lead to significant distress for participants. When researching trauma, including sexual assault, researchers need to be particularly cautious, as discussing traumatic experiences can rekindle painful memories and emotions, potentially exacerbating the psychological harm that victims have already experienced.

Participants in such studies may face not only the discomfort of recounting their experiences but also the risk of triggering feelings of shame, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress. Researchers must employ ethical practices, including informed consent and debriefing, to mitigate these risks. This highlights the importance of ethical considerations in psychological research, especially when vulnerable populations are involved.

In contrast, while the Stanford Prison Experiment and the Milgram Experiment also raised concerns about ethical treatment and psychological stress, they were more centered on issues related to authority and conformity rather than on the emotional impact of recounting traumatic personal experiences. The Hawthorne Effect, meanwhile, refers to changes in behavior due to being observed during research, rather than emotional harm. Thus, the study of sexual assault victims stands out in its direct association with the potential for emotional and psychological harm.