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. 2023 Sep 18:25:e47884.
doi: 10.2196/47884.

Ethical Imperatives for Working With Diverse Populations in Digital Research

Jonathan Herington  1 , Kay Connelly  2   3 , Judy Illes  4
Affiliations

Ethical Imperatives for Working With Diverse Populations in Digital Research

Jonathan Herington et al. J Med Internet Res. .

Abstract

Digital research methodologies are driving a revolution in health technology but do not yet fully engage diverse and historically underrepresented populations. In this paper, we explore the ethical imperative for such engagement alongside accompanying challenges related to recruitment, appreciation of risk, and confidentiality, among others. We critically analyze existing research ethics frameworks and find that their reliance on individualistic and autonomy-focused models of research ethics does not offer adequate protection in the context of the diversity imperative. To meet the requirements of justice and inclusivity in digital research, methods will benefit from a reorientation toward more participatory practices.

Keywords: digital health research; diversity; engagement; justice; participatory; research ethics; research participants.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of Interest: None declared.

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