What is the purpose of "debriefing" in research?

The purpose of debriefing in research is primarily to provide participants with information about the study's goals, its findings, and the implications of the research. Debriefing serves several important functions: it helps participants understand why they were asked to participate, clarifies any misconceptions they may have had about the study, and offers insight into how their contributions fit into the larger research context.

Additionally, offering debriefing after participation is crucial for ethical reasons, especially in studies involving deception where participants may not have been fully aware of the study's true nature at the outset. This process helps ensure that participants leave the study informed and with a sense of closure, which can enhance their overall experience and understanding of the research.

While summarizing findings for participants, collecting data on participant satisfaction, or conducting follow-up surveys are valuable research practices, they do not encapsulate the primary focus of debriefing. The central aim is to communicate vital information and foster an understanding of the research rather than just to gather feedback or summarize results.