Ethical Issues in Intercultural Health Research

In biomedical and social health research, which involves and impacts upon humans, researchers need to conform to the highest standards of ethical practice. Four basic concepts which are widely acceptable in research involving humans are: Integrity, Respect for persons, Beneficence and Justice. However, while the universality of these ethical principles is recognized, their interpretations and applications are influenced by the different moral values and beliefs of particular cultures. Therefore, when conducting intercultural health research, researchers are faced with many ethical issues and challenges. The ethical challenges covered in the chapter are related to cross language communication, different health beliefs and practices, consent, privacy and confidentiality. Practical implications for the intercultural health researchers are then provided with regards to how cultural differences in ethical perspectives can be tolerated with mutual understanding and respect.