A student wants to investigate how different body types respond to the same aerobic training protocol by measuring heart rate, ventilation rate, and perceived exertion. Analyse the ethical considerations related to body type classification and data presentation in this investigation. (7 marks)
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Sample Answer
- Classification of participants by body type must use objective, scientifically-based criteria rather than subjective judgments to avoid stigmatisation or reinforcement of negative body stereotypes.
- The language used in all aspects of the investigation (recruitment, protocols, and reporting) must be neutral and respectful, avoiding terms that could cause embarrassment or perpetuate weight bias.
- Informed consent must clearly explain how body type will be determined and how this information will be used in the investigation to ensure participants understand what they are agreeing to.
- Data presentation should focus on physiological responses rather than emphasising body type differences in ways that might reinforce stereotypes or cause participant discomfort when results are shared.
- Group data should be used wherever possible to minimise identification of individuals, particularly for sensitive measures or when small numbers of participants represent specific body types.
- Privacy during physical measurements related to body type determination (height, weight, circumference) must be strictly maintained to respect participant dignity.
- Researchers should anticipate and mitigate potential psychological impacts of body type classification by emphasising the diversity of healthy body compositions and focusing on functional physiological responses rather than appearance.
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Sample Answer
- Classification of participants by body type must use objective, scientifically-based criteria rather than subjective judgments to avoid stigmatisation or reinforcement of negative body stereotypes.
- The language used in all aspects of the investigation (recruitment, protocols, and reporting) must be neutral and respectful, avoiding terms that could cause embarrassment or perpetuate weight bias.
- Informed consent must clearly explain how body type will be determined and how this information will be used in the investigation to ensure participants understand what they are agreeing to.
- Data presentation should focus on physiological responses rather than emphasising body type differences in ways that might reinforce stereotypes or cause participant discomfort when results are shared.
- Group data should be used wherever possible to minimise identification of individuals, particularly for sensitive measures or when small numbers of participants represent specific body types.
- Privacy during physical measurements related to body type determination (height, weight, circumference) must be strictly maintained to respect participant dignity.
- Researchers should anticipate and mitigate potential psychological impacts of body type classification by emphasising the diversity of healthy body compositions and focusing on functional physiological responses rather than appearance.