Ethical Perspectives in Sociological Research on Drug Use

Abstract

The social context generated by the problem of drug consumption is a very current one. The research of the phenomenon in all its complexity is, from this point of view, an absolutely necessary undertaking, useful in the short, medium, and long term. The study of drug use concerns both the individual and the community. Given the complexity of the phenomenon through the perceptions, representations, and stereotypes it engages at the social and individual levels, the research involves a series of precautions from the perspective of professional ethics and deontology.

In this article, we aim to outline an ethical perspective in the sociological research of drug use by referring to three distinct ethical dimensions: procedural ethics, professional ethics, and practical ethics. 

We will also refer to critical opinions related to the relevance of applying the informed consent form in the situation where the research concerns underage drug users or if the physical and mental health of drug users is compromised by the long-term effects of consumption, with visible consequences on the perception of the surrounding reality.

We want that by adopting a vision as objective as possible on the practical use of professional ethics and deontology in sociological research, we can contribute to the outlining of scientific perspectives that are as objective as possible, valuable in order to build appropriate intervention strategies.