NCJ Number
115676
Journal
International Journal of Social Language Volume: 62 Dated: (1986) Pages: 119-128
Date Published
1986
Length
10 pages
Annotation
The involvement of academicians in analyses of surreptitious tape recordings made by the FBI or other investigative agencies is acceptable providing that appropriate ethical principles are followed.
Abstract
The American Psychological Association (APA) has listed 10 ethical principles that apply before, during, and after research involving human subjects. However, the FBI and other law enforcement and investigative agencies gather information under circumstances and guidelines that differ significantly from those used by academic researchers. Thus, some of the APA principles are inapplicable, although most can still be used. Academicians should also recognize the adversarial framework within which courts operate and the resulting necessity of appearing in court to testify either for the prosecution or for the defense. They should also consider carefully the manner and extent to which they publish their analyses as academic work. Publication is acceptable provided the appropriate ethical principles are followed after the academician starts taking part in the investigation. 2 references.