evaluating ethically

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When evaluating domestic and family violence interventions, the safety and well being of participants are critically important. For example, retelling one’s story of abuse can be re-traumatising; confidentiality issues can be essential to participant safety.

Evaluators should aim to keep any negative impacts of their investigations to a minimum. Where possible, they should try to inform, assist and empower participants, and avoid distressing or endangering them.

At a minimum, evaluators should:

  • ensure participants understand what the evaluation is about and give informed consent to participate

  • minimise the potential for harm to anyone as a result of the evaluation process

  • negotiate payment or restitution for participants’ time and costs

  • ensure confidentiality and security of personal and identifying information

  • provide support and referral, if required

  • treat participants respectfully

  • share findings with participants.

 

ethical guidelines

Ethical guidelines to assist you in conducting evaluation and research responsibly are provided by a number of organisations: