socially sensitive research
research on topics likely to evoke controversy in the community or strong emotional responses from participants. Such topics would include those that have ethical implications affecting subgroups or cultures within society (e.g., ethnic minorities) or that involve potential costs and consequent problems for the participants, investigators, or sponsors. For example, a study that examines the relative merits of day care for infants versus full-time care by the mother can have broad social implications and thus be considered socially sensitive.