Consent to Participate in a Research Study
Personality and Employment
Introduction
You are being asked to participate in a research study that is being done by researchers from Oakland University. This study is being done by Dr. Virgil Zeigler-Hill (Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology). The purpose of this consent form is to let you know more about the study so you can decide whether to participate in the study or not. Please read the form carefully. You may ask questions about why the research is being done, what you will be asked to do, the possible risks and benefits, your rights as a participant, and anything else about the research or this form that is not clear. You may talk with your friends and family about this research study before making your decision. When all your questions have been answered, you can decide if you want to be in this study. This process is called ‘informed consent.’ If you decide to participate, you will be asked to sign this form and will receive a copy of the form.
Why is this study being done?
The purpose of this research study is to examine the connections between personality features and various outcomes (e.g., sexual objectification, psychological well-being) among individuals who are currently employed.
Who can participate in this study?
You are being asked to participate in the study because you are employed and at least 18 years of age or older.
Who is sponsoring this study?
None
Where is this study being done?
This study is being conducted via a secure internet site (Surveymonkey.com).
What procedures are involved with this study?
If you agree to take part in this research study, you will be asked to complete a series of questionnaires online via a secure website (i.e., Surveymonkey.com).
How long will participation in this study last?
Your participation in this study will take approximately 1 hour. The principal investigator may stop your participation in this study at any time without your consent if it is discovered that you are providing inaccurate information.
How many people will be participating in this study?
Approximately 800 individuals working in various occupations will be participating in this study.
What are the risks, side effects or discomforts that can be expected from participating in this study?
By taking part in this study, you may be at risk for the following:
• Answering some of the items may make you feel uncomfortable or distressed
To minimize the risk of discomfort, you may choose not to answer any items that are too uncomfortable for you. It is also important for you to remember that your participation is voluntary and that you can discontinue your participation at any point without any penalty. If you feel upset or distressed as a result of your participation in this study, you may want to consider contacting the Graham Health Center (248-370-2341), the School of Education and Human Services Counseling Services (248-370-2633), or Oakland Family Services in Rochester Hills (866-903-8955). It is important that you contact the principal researcher (Dr. Virgil Zeigler-Hill: zeiglerh@oakland.edu) if you are upset by your participation in the present study.
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.