The scientific method has little credence in inner-city communities. Often the methodology has been contaminated with prejudicial biases, self-enrichment, appeasement, compromise, distortion, and failure to communicate the intent, findings, and interpretation of studies. The community's confidence in research can, with some difficulty, be restored. Some suggestions include clear, continuous communication with community residents. All questions should be consistently and frequently discussed in an informal atmosphere, such as a coffee hour. The findings should be gathered and utilized with sensitivity and empathy. (Author/DM)