Covert research in ethnography is beset with

The most appropriate answer is: Ethical issues

Important Points

Covert research in ethnography refers to a research approach where the researcher conceals their identity or purpose from the participants being studied. This type of research can raise significant ethical concerns due to the lack of informed consent and the potential for harm to the participants.

Ethical issues that may arise in covert research in ethnography include:

 Lack of Informed Consent:

• Participants are typically not aware that they are being observed or studied, and they have not provided informed consent to be part of the research.
• This raises concerns about the violation of ethical principles of autonomy and voluntary participation.

 Deception:

• The covert nature of the research involves the intentional deception of participants, which is ethically problematic.
• Deception can lead to a breach of trust between the researcher and the subjects.

Potential Harm:

• Covert research can lead to unintended harm to the participants, as they may be unaware of being observed and may not have the opportunity to withdraw their consent or express discomfort.

 Confidentiality and Anonymity:

• Maintaining confidentiality and anonymity becomes challenging in covert research, as participants' identities may be unknown to the researcher, yet

Bias and Objectivity: Covert research can introduce biases, as the researcher's hidden presence may influence participants' behavior unknowingly.

Ethical issues are a significant concern in covert research, and researchers need to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits, ensure informed consent and confidentiality, and minimize harm to participants while conducting any form of research, including ethnography.