Which statement best describes ethical research practice in intimate-relationship studies?

• A. Negotiated, shared decision-making and power balance.
• B. Coercive recruitment.
• C. Disclosing data publicly without anonymization.
• D. Informed consent, confidentiality, and participant support.

Answer: (D)

Ethical research in intimate-relationship studies hinges on protecting participants' autonomy, privacy, and well-being. Informed consent ensures people understand what participation involves, potential risks, and that they can withdraw at any time. Confidentiality safeguards their identities and data so sensitive relationship details don’t cause harm if disclosed. Participant support provides resources or referrals if the discussion of relationship issues causes distress or safety concerns. Together, these elements create a trustworthy and safe research environment, which is why this option stands out. Coercive recruitment violates autonomy; disclosing data publicly without anonymization risks harm and violates privacy; while negotiated decision-making and power balance are important, they don’t by themselves guarantee informed consent, confidentiality, and participant support.