What must researchers ensure when working with sensitive data?

When working with sensitive data, it is crucial for researchers to protect individual privacy while still providing useful insights from their research. Reporting only aggregate data is a key strategy in achieving this goal. Aggregate data summarizes findings from a group rather than providing details about individual participants. This approach minimizes the risk of identifying specific individuals within the dataset, thus preserving their confidentiality and privacy.

In ethical research practices, particularly when dealing with sensitive information, safeguarding participants' identities is paramount. Using aggregate data allows researchers to present findings meaningfully without compromising the anonymity of the participants. This practice aligns with ethical guidelines to ensure that the risks to participants are minimized and that their rights are upheld throughout the research process.