Factors that may direct or bias the conception and design of that research include the prior research, new information, pressures from policymakers, topics identified by grantmaking agencies, and other factors. Researchers should be aware of outside influences so that they may examine such forces for bias, detrimental effects, selectivity, and faulty reasoning. They should also recognize how the explicit directives from ethical guidelines and legal regulations will influence the implementation of the research. The issues of confidentiality, privacy, and informed consent are particularly important. Researchers should also recognize that their methods can protect confidentiality and that their findings can influence legal, social, political, and medical policy on AIDS. 104 references.