title: Blending genetics and sociocultural historical inquiry: ethics, culture, and human subjects protection in international cross cultural research.
abstract: In this paper, we examine the implementation and difficulties when conducting genetics research in a rural, traditional West African culture within the frame of the United States' grounded research ethics. Research challenges are highlighted by Western researchers following U.S. Institutional Review Board (IRB) guidelines and practices in a non-Western country. IRB concepts are culture bound in Western ideals that may not have synchronicity and compatibility with non-Western cultures. Differences in sociocultural norms, traditions, language, and geography were influencing factors that can affect application of IRB principles. Suggestions for change are offered, which will potentially aid researchers considering application of IRB requirements when conducting research in non-Westernized, non-industrialized countries.
authors.affiliation: Affiliated Faculty, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA.
authors.forename: Deborah A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Sampson
authors.forename: Dennis
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Caldwell
authors.forename: Andre D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Taylor
authors.forename: Jacquelyn Y
authors.initials: JY
authors.lastname: Taylor
mesh_terms: D000349:Africa; D002980:Climate; D003431:Cross-Cultural Comparison; D003469:Culture; D028744:Ethics Committees, Research; D032984:Ethics, Research; D005260:Female; D005610:Freedom; D006801:Humans; D007258:Informed Consent; D038622:Internationality; D008297:Male; D012737:Sex Factors; D014481:United States
keywords: Dogon; Institutional Review Boards; Mali; ethics; genetic