Chapter 9 of the Tri-Council Policy Statement 2 (TCPS 2) on Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans outlines key considerations for conducting research within communities. The policy emphasizes the importance of understanding the concept of community in order to ensure ethical research practices. This article explores how the TCPS 2 defines community and discusses the implications for research involving human participants.
The TCPS 2 defines community as “a group of people who share a common interest, experience, or identity.” This definition recognizes that communities can be diverse and that individuals may belong to multiple communities. It also acknowledges that communities may be based on geographic location, social bonds, or shared values. Researchers must be sensitive to the specific characteristics of each community and tailor their research approach accordingly.
In order to conduct research ethically within communities, researchers must understand the community’s norms, values, and priorities. This involves engaging with community members, seeking their input, and respecting their cultural practices. Researchers must also ensure that their research benefits the community and does not harm its members. This may involve obtaining consent from community leaders and ensuring that participants are fully informed about the research process.