Many problems in sexuality research are more difficult to contend with than in other types of research. These include ethical issues, volunteer bias, sampling problems, and reliability.
Ethical Issues
Ethical issues affect all social science—and sexuality research in particular. Prior to a person’s participation in a study of sexuality, researchers must obtain the participant’s informed consent. This is especially important in an area such as sexuality because it is such a personal subject. Informed consent means that the person knows what to expect from the questions and procedures, how the information will be used, that his or her confidentiality will be assured, and to whom he or she can address questions. Some things that people reveal in a study, such as their acknowledgment of an affair or a sexual dysfunction, can cause harm or embarrassment if researchers are careless enough to let others find out. Another ethical question that has generated controversy is whether or not children should be asked questions about sexuality. Overall it is standard procedure in sexuality research to maintain confidentiality and obtain informed consent from all participants, regardless of age.