The IRB looks more favorably on research which is described fully and completely, showing evidence that the researcher understands the real nature of risk in the research and the probable effect of ameliorating, risk-reducing concepts and procedures.
By contrast, the research project which gives evidence of an attempt to dismiss or ignore research risks is likely to be returned to the researcher for risk-reduction, including if necessary reconsideration of the research methodology. The IRB is looking to approve projects where the researcher has shown evidence of understanding the inherent weaknesses and threshholds of risk in the research.
Finally, the IRB is looking for evidence of security consciousness on the part of the researcher. Human subjects have the right to expect confidentiality of the records of their participation, except where they have been specifically notified that this is not possible. A cavalier attitude expressed in a protocol application will produce a negative finding from the IRB, and the privilege of using human subjects will not be granted until IRB is satisfied that the Institutional Assurance that human subjects will be protected can be honored.
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