As a member of the IRB reviewing this research proposal, I would raise several concerns regarding the ethics of the study:

1. Potential Psychological Harm:

• Exposure to horror movies can be distressing, especially for teenagers. The study proposes showing the participants multiple horror movies over six hours, potentially exceeding their tolerance for scary content. This could lead to nightmares, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and emotional distress.

• The study design doesn’t consider individual sensitivities to horror. Some teenagers may be more susceptible to negative effects than others, depending on their individual personality, past experiences, and mental health.

2. Informed Consent:

• It’s unclear if the study adequately informs participants about the potential risks and intensity of the horror movies. Teenagers might underestimate the potential for psychological harm, especially if the study downplays the graphic nature of the content.

• Consent from parents or guardians is crucial for research involving minors. However, simply obtaining parental consent doesn’t guarantee that the teenagers themselves fully understand and freely agree to participate.

3. Data Validity and Interpretation:

• Six hours of continuous exposure to horror movies could induce fatigue and decreased attention, impacting the results of the memory tests. This raises concerns about the validity and generalizability of the findings.

• The study only measures immediate memory changes. It’s unclear if the observed decline in visual memory is temporary or has long-term consequences. Additionally, the study doesn’t explore the potential impact of horror movies on other cognitive functions like decision-making or problem-solving.

4. Alternative Research Designs:

• Using shorter clips or excerpts from horror movies instead of full-length films could reduce the risk of psychological harm while still allowing for research on memory effects.

• Recruiting participants who already enjoy horror movies might mitigate the risk of distress and provide more reliable data.

• Utilizing non-horror movie stimuli that also evoke strong emotions (e.g., sports matches, documentaries on war or natural disasters) could provide valuable comparisons for understanding the specific effects of horror on memory.

5. Risk Mitigation Strategies:

• Implementing screening measures to identify teenagers with pre-existing mental health conditions or high sensitivity to scary content and exclude them from the study.

• Providing clear and detailed information about the horror movies used in the study, including potential disturbing content and trigger warnings.

• Offering participants breaks and the option to withdraw from the study at any time if they feel uncomfortable.

• Having trained mental health professionals available to support participants experiencing distress during or after the study.

Conclusion:

While the proposed research on the relationship between horror movies and memory in teenagers holds potential value, the current design raises significant ethical concerns regarding potential psychological harm, informed consent, and data validity. By implementing stricter safeguards, exploring alternative research designs, and prioritizing participant well-being, the researchers can ensure their study adheres to ethical principles and minimizes risks to the participants.