The moral claim for obligatory dissemination of study results: part one

Abstract

The process of taking data from a person or community when doing research, and then publishing such data and one’s academic interpretation thereof in an academic journal, is usually well protected and scrutinized by several ethical checks and balances. However, to disseminate research findings back to the community in which the research was conducted is seen as a fundamental principle in ethical research practice that seldom materializes into reality. When researchers appropriately respect their obligation to do this, it is often filled with nuanced challenges. Researchers must consider how to convey complex findings in a way that is understandable and actionable for the community. Different communities have different views on norms, values and communication preferences. Researchers must be culturally sensitive in how they share findings to ensure relevance and respect. Dissemination may require resources such as translation services, community meetings or educational materials. It’s essential to share not only positive results but also negative or inconclusive findings. This avoids bias and helps the community make informed decisions.