Blessed-Sayah, S. (2026). Beyond compliance: Reframing research ethics with children in vulnerable positions through recognition and moral duty. Childhood, 33(3), pp. 511-528.
Abstract: Procedural ethics often proves insufficient for research involving children in vulnerable positions, risking superficial engagement and extractivist practices, and neglecting participant dignity. The article moves beyond compliance, presenting a framework that integrates Kantian deontology and Honneth’s recognition theory to ground ethical practice in moral duty and mutual recognition. Synthesising researcher positionality, Kant’s categorical imperative, Honneth’s practical dimensions of recognition (care, rights, solidarity), and ongoing reflexivity, the article offers a relational approach to navigate fieldwork complexities. The findings emphasise shifting from proceduralism towards participatory methods that foster participant dignity, agency, and solidarity, providing guidance for respectful, transformative ethical decision-making. Abstract reproduced with permission. The final, definitive version of this paper has been published in Childhood, 33(3), August 2026 by SAGE Publications, Ltd., All rights reserved. © SAGE Publications, Ltd.
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