In the context of research ethics, what does confidentiality protect?

Confidentiality in research ethics primarily serves to protect the privacy of participants' information. This concept is crucial in ensuring that personal data collected during research remains secure and is not disclosed without consent. By keeping participants' identities and sensitive information confidential, researchers foster trust and encourage honest participation, which is essential for obtaining valid results. Protecting confidentiality also aligns with ethical standards, as it respects the autonomy and rights of individuals involved in the study. Researchers have the responsibility to handle personal data meticulously, implementing measures like anonymization or secure data storage, to maintain this confidentiality throughout the research process and beyond.