A breach of confidentiality is also a possible risk. It is possible that individuals not associated with this research my accidentally gain access to the personal information of participants. Appropriate safeguards are set in place to minimize a breach of confidentiality (e.g. researcher’s office is secure and password protected) but no researcher can ever guarantee that this sort of breach will not occur.
Are there any known benefits from taking part in this study?
There are no direct benefits to you for participating in this study. However, the results of this study may benefit others in the future.
What are the alternatives to participation in this study?
You may choose not to participate in this study.
What are the costs of taking part in the study?
There is no cost to you for participating in this study.
What compensation is being provided for participation?
There no direct compensations other than knowing you helped the field of psychology.
What are your rights if you participate in this study?
Your decision to participate in this study is voluntary. You may choose to leave the study at any time, or refuse to answer any questions that may be asked during the study. You will not lose any benefits to which you are otherwise entitled and your decision will not affect your present or future relationship with Oakland University, the researcher, or the psychology department. If you are a student or employee at Oakland University, your decision about participation will not affect your grades or employment status.
What will be done to keep my information confidential?
Every effort will be made to keep your study-related information confidential.
Personal information regarding your participation in this study may be disclosed if required by law. Also, your research records may be reviewed by the following groups:
• Regulatory authorities involved in the oversight of research (Office for Human Research Protections or other federal, state, or international regulatory agencies)
• Members or representatives of Oakland University Institutional Review Board (IRB) (in order to ensure that your rights as a research participant are being protected)
When study results are presented at professional conferences or published in professional journals, your name or username will not be used.
What do you do if you have questions about the study?
For questions about the study you may contact Dr. Virgil Zeigler-Hill
Phone: (248) 370-2676
Email: zeiglerh@oakland.edu
Office: 212A Pryale Hall, Oakland University
For questions regarding your rights as a participant in human subjects research, you may contact the Oakland University Institutional Review Board, 248-370-2762.
Signing the consent form
You have read (or someone has read to you) this form. You are aware that you are being asked to participate in a research study, and you understand the possible risks and potential benefits. You have had the chance to ask questions and have had them answered to your satisfaction. You voluntarily agree to participate in this study.