Researching Marginalized Populations: Ethical Concerns about Ethnography

Abstract

Recent increases in the rates of sexually transmitted infection (STI) in males having sex with males and simultaneous increases in the use of crystal meth within gay circuit parties (GCP) highlight the growing need for research on leisure practices involving sex and drugs. While there is epidemiological evidence correlating these practices, STI rates have not decreased. The author provides an ethical framework for qualitative research that "colours outside the lines" of traditional epidemiological methods for research on sexual health. To date, the majority of GCP research has used survey methods; however, no literature addresses the ethical concerns of naturalistic observation that is aimed at understanding the sexualized environment of GCPs. This review found that while ethical risks are inherent, the benefits to society and to the group under study significantly outweigh the risks.