Ethical considerations when conducting joint interviews with close relatives or family: an integrative review. Issue 2 (10th October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Voltelen, Barbara; Konradsen, Hanne; Østergaard, Birte
• Is Part Of: Scandinavian journal of caring sciences. Volume 32:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 515
• Page End: 526
• Publication Date: 2017-10-10
• Subjects: ethics -- families -- relationships -- joint interviews -- qualitative research -- methodology -- integrative review; Nursing -- Periodicals; Therapeutics -- Periodicals; 362.1
• DOI: 10.1111/scs.12535
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0283-9318

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Researchers are obligated to do no harm to participants of research. Conflicts in relationships can cause negative well‐being; therefore, insight is needed into the particular ethical considerations that arise when conducting joint interviews with close relatives or family members simultaneously in the healthcare setting. Aim: To collect and share knowledge related to ethical considerations conducting joint interviews. Design and methods: A literature review inspired by the integrative review method was performed. Data were retrieved through a structured search in PubMed, CINAHL and the Philosopher's Index and Academic Search Premier for articles published in English from 1980 to 2016 and included 18 articles, of a possible 2153. Article content was assessed line‐by‐line, and ethical considerations were extracted and organized in three subgroups regarding: Planning joint interviews; Conduction joint interviews and Reporting on joint interviews Findings: Participants should be offered the best terms for a constructive, on‐going relationship after the joint interview has ended. This obligates the researcher to ensure a safe environment during the joint interview and create a delicate balance between the needs of the participants, using nonconfrontational techniques that foster equal and neutral but dedicated attention to all parties, before, during and after the joint interviews. Conclusion: Specific ethical considerations should be taken into account before, during and after joint interviewing. Further research is needed before a final conclusion can be drawn.