IRB insiders (author's term) refers to the individuals within IRBs who make regulatory determinations on research. The term also includes individuals who have the authority to make decisions around how the IRB operates (e.g., associate director or director). This study sought to understand the lived experiences of IRB insiders who review primarily social, behavioral, and education research. More specifically, it combined Bronfenbrenner's (1979) ecological systems theory with the concept of interpersonal trust to develop a new framework for understanding how IRB insiders experience their roles. IRB insiders from a variety of institutions were interviewed about their experiences within the IRB. Data were analyzed and synthesized with current literature to develop a set of recommendations for IRB insiders and institutions. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]