Ethics in Research

Informed Consent

Respect for Persons

Beneficence

Nonmalificence

Justice

Definition: Participants must be fully informed about the nature, purpose, procedures, risks, and benefits of the research before agreeing to participate.

Key Elements: Disclosure, comprehension, voluntariness, and the ability to withdraw without penalty.

Example: Providing a detailed consent form and allowing participants to ask questions before they decide to take part in a study.

Definition: Recognizing the autonomy and dignity of all individuals. Special protection is provided to those with diminished autonomy, such as children or individuals with cognitive impairments.

Key Elements: Respect for autonomy, protection for vulnerable populations.

Example: Obtaining assent from children in addition to consent from their guardians.

Definition: The obligation to minimize harm and maximize benefits to participants.

Key Elements: Risk-benefit analysis, ensuring the well-being of participants.

Example: Designing research to avoid or minimize potential physical or psychological harm.

Definition: The duty to not inflict harm intentionally.

Key Elements: Avoiding unnecessary risks, protecting participants from harm.

Example: Screening out participants with health conditions that could be exacerbated by study procedures.

Definition: The fair and equitable distribution of the benefits and burdens of research.

Key Elements: Fair participant selection, equal treatment, avoidance of exploitation.

Example: Ensuring that no group is disproportionately burdened or excluded from the potential benefits of research.