Abstract

This study explored how experienced qualitative researchers constructed their understanding of the ethics of qualitative research. It examined both the theoretical and practical aspects of conducting ethical qualitative research from the emic perspective often experienced qualitative researchers. The study analyzed the researchers' descriptions of research and their reflections on studies they have conducted. It disclosed how the researchers define ethical research and revealed the importance of reflection in developing their understanding of qualitative research ethics. ;Ethical research in this study was defined as a fundamentally altruistic endeavor. Ethical researchers were described as developing and maintaining a respectful reciprocal researcher-participant relationship, producing research that was meaningful, and conducting research with an unselfish motivation. ;This study revealed the importance these researchers placed on reflection as they developed their sense of qualitative research ethics. They discussed their reflections on previously held assumptions about research, their reflections on research methodologies, and their reflections on experiences conducting research. ;Although most codes of ethics have depended on the ethical theory of actutilitarianism and its cost-benefit analysis, this study found that qualitative research and the importance placed on the researcher-participant relationship is more closely aligned with covenantal ethical theories that emphasize commitment and care. This study may be useful to novice qualitative researchers in their search for an effective, ethical methodology