Ethical issues in research with victims of violence and crime

Abstract

Research in the field of victimology is important to develop policies that can promote safety and emotional stability of the victims. Nevertheless, in the production of this knowledge arise numerous ethical issues that must be considered. The non-respect for them can promote a revictimization. The victimization experiences can result in very adverse effects and may interfere with the ability of the victims to decide to participate in a research. Based on the evidence around the impact of violence and crime on its victims, we pretend in this article to list some of the major ethical issues underlying the scientific production in this area, identifying the main care and recommendations to be implemented in this regard. Taking into account this set of guidelines is essential for carrying out a quality research and to mitigate any damage that it can cause in their participants.