Developing an ethical framework for the recruitment of people who inject drugs experiencing incarceration in HIV prevention research: a qualitative study
2024

Ethical Framework for HIV Prevention Research in Prisons

Sample size: 21 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Matthew Murphy, Nyx Gomes, Kimberly Kane, Josiah D. Rich, Lloyd Goldsamt, Jasjit S. Ahluwalia, Kate M. Guthrie, Susan E. Ramsey, Sara Vargas

Primary Institution: Lifespan, Providence, RI USA

Hypothesis

How can ethical research practices be developed for HIV prevention among incarcerated individuals who inject drugs?

Conclusion

The study found that there is support for conducting HIV prevention research in carceral settings, emphasizing the need for participant-centered approaches.

Supporting Evidence

  • Most participants supported research activities in the carceral setting.
  • Participants expressed that research could provide valuable HIV prevention education.
  • Concerns were raised about the impact of withdrawal symptoms on research participation.
  • Participants emphasized the importance of comfort and autonomy in research settings.

Takeaway

This study talks to people in jail about how to do research on HIV prevention in a way that makes them feel safe and respected.

Methodology

Qualitative interviews were conducted with 21 incarcerated men who inject drugs to explore their perspectives on ethical research practices.

Potential Biases

Potential biases may arise from the dual role of researchers as clinicians and the influence of carceral staff on participants.

Limitations

The study only included cisgender men, which may not represent the views of women or gender minorities in carceral settings.

Participant Demographics

Participants were incarcerated men with a history of injecting drugs.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/s12954-024-01138-z

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