What does the term "debrief" refer to in psychology research?

The term "debrief" in psychology research refers to the process of explaining the study to participants after it concludes. This is a critical component of ethical research practices. After participating in an experiment, individuals should be provided with comprehensive information about the study's purpose, methods, and any deception used, ensuring they understand the context of their involvement. This practice not only helps to clarify any misconceptions but also supports participants' emotional well-being by alleviating any potential distress caused by the research.

Offering a debriefing also enables researchers to uphold ethical standards and foster trust in the research process, which is important for maintaining the integrity of psychological research as a whole. By giving participants insight into what they participated in, researchers are respecting the participants' autonomy and right to informed consent.