Some research can only be conducted without the full knowledge of the research participants. Yet the use of deception in research raises special problems that the IRB will review closely. One consideration is whether the deception is necessary. An investigator proposing to use deception should justify its use. Present federal rules prohibit the use of deceptive techniques which place participants at more than minimal risk.
UW-Madison IRBs expect investigators to debrief participants who have been deceived during participation in research activities. The debriefing should include a detailed description of the ways in which deception was used. The investigator is responsible for ensuring that the participant leaves the research setting with an accurate understanding of the deception. The debriefing process, including any written materials, should be explained to the IRB as a part of submitted protocols.
The investigator should be able to demonstrate all of the following: