Problem: Which of the following is true of a sociological researcher's vow to preserve confidentiality? Multiple choice question. Sociologists are required by both federal law and the Code of Ethics to preserve confidentiality. Although it is general practice, nothing requires a sociologist to preserve the confidentiality of a research subject. It is a conflict of interest for a sociologist to preserve the confidentiality of a research subject when compelled by a legal body to do so. Federal law does not require a sociologist to preserve the confidentiality of those they interview.