Deception in research through partial disclosure: Exploring the Ethics Committee dilemma

The qualitative dataset titled "Deception in research through partial disclosure: Exploring the Ethics Committee dilemma" explores the ethical complexities surrounding the use of partial disclosure in human subjects research. Based on detailed interviews and thematic coding of responses from Ethics Committee (EC) members and stakeholders, the dataset captures diverse perspectives on when, why, and how partial disclosure is used, and the extent to which it is ethically permissible. Participants reflect on their awareness (or lack thereof) of the concepts of deception and partial disclosure, often conflating the two, and express uncertainty about their justifications and boundaries. The dataset reveals critical issues in informed consent processes, including miscommunication, incomplete disclosure, and the challenges of ensuring participant autonomy, particularly when vulnerable populations are involved. It also highlights institutional and operational challenges faced by ECs, such as time constraints, limited subject expertise, poor translation practices, and the difficulty of identifying unethical practices during protocol review. Additionally, it documents researchers' tendencies to prioritize scientific goals over participant welfare, sometimes engaging in misleading practices or failing to report adverse events or sample reuse. The data highlights the need for clearer guidelines, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and continuous ethical training for both researchers and EC members. Through rich verbatim quotes and layered coding, the dataset provides a nuanced understanding of how ethical dilemmas related to deception and partial disclosure unfold in real-world research oversight settings.