A social work researcher is concerned that a study will impact the emotional state of the participants. Which level of ethical question is the researcher asking?

The researcher is asking a micro-level ethical question, which focuses on the direct, individual impact of the research on the participants involved. At this level, the concern revolves around how the study may affect the emotional well-being of each participant, ensuring that their rights, dignity, and mental health are safeguarded throughout the research process. This includes considerations such as obtaining informed consent, providing support, and minimizing potential harm.

In contrast, macro-level ethical questions typically address broader societal implications or systemic issues, such as the overall ethical considerations of the research for a population or community. Meso-level questions often involve the relationships and dynamics between groups or organizations, while global ethical questions might consider transnational impacts or global research ethics. The micro focus emphasizes the individual experience and immediate effects, which aligns with the researcher's concern about the emotional state of participants.