Marginalized populations, recruitment, research design, research incentives, research participation
Abstract
This paper presents a case study about issues that can arise in research with marginalized populations. We use our experiences during a focus group conducted with low-income men to discuss how using monetary incentives can lead to ethical and methodological dilemmas, including participants’ misrepresentation of their demographic backgrounds to match study criteria. We address difficulties caused by the Institutional Review Board process’ inability to account for unanticipated circumstances during fieldwork. We note that any resolution of such dilemmas must prioritize responsible research practice and protecting participants. We also note the need for more research on the impact and ethics of monetary and other incentives in recruiting participants for studies such as ours that include populations from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The issues raised in this paper have implications for those considering research design, especially concerning incentives and screening questions.
Author Biographies
Lara Descartes, Brescia University College
Lara Descartes, PhD, is an associate professor in Family Studies at Brescia University College in London, Ontario, Canada.
Marysol Asencio, University of Connecticut
Marysol Asencio, DrPH, is an associate professor in Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA.
Thomas O. Blank, University of Connecticut
Thomas O. Blank, PhD, is a professor in Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA.
