Using Generative AI Responsibly when Researching with Vulnerable Youth Populations

This guide explores the ethical and responsible use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in research involving vulnerable youth populations. Drawing on insights from a workshop with practitioners working with vulnerable populations, the guide foregrounds real-world ethical tensions, practical considerations, and emerging good practice. The guide centres on critical questions that researchers should consider when integrating GenAI into their work with vulnerable populations including issues of consent, transparency, data sensitivity, bias, and the potential for harm. It emphasises the importance of aligning GenAI use with existing ethical frameworks in youth work and research, while also recognising the novel challenges these technologies introduce. It concludes with reflective prompts for readers to evaluate their research on the dimensions of ethical tensions, practical considerations, and establishing good practices.

keywords: research design; research guide; generative artificial intelligence; youth populations

• with: Joel McGregor, Caleb Lloyd, Abigail Sheed, Sam Champion, Prathiksha Ashok Raj Kumar
• year: March 2026 — ongoing