Informed consent in research is meant to ensure that those who take part in the study are legally
authorized to do so. Also, they should not be induced, forced, coerced, or made to participate
unwillingly using unacceptable ways. The very essence of the consent forms, therefore, is to
protect the rights of the participants. In that regard, the consent forms should be drafted in a way
they communicate all the relevant information to the participants. That is significant in helping
them make an informed decision on whether to participate or not (Committee on Science,
Engineering, and Public Policy, 1995).
According to Standard 3.10, in research, informed consent should be used for various reasons. It
is, therefore, essential for research to document their consent form to tell the participants about
the purpose of the study, to right to take part or decline and the possible foreseeable
consequences. Other than protecting the participants, it also safeguards the researchers from
complains or litigations arising from mishandling personal information.
By reading and understanding the document, the participants can take a step and sign to confirm
they agree to take part. Based on that, the consent forms should be crafted to facilitate
comprehension. That requires the use of plain language, organizing and presenting it in a way
that it does not isolate important facts about the research. Since most researches involve human
subjects, it is essential to include vital information to help the participants take part in the study.
Including crucial information, is necessary and more especially where vulnerable groups are
involved. For example, the minors cannot make their own decisions to take part in a study or not
(National Institute of Health, n. d.). Instead, parents or guardians will have to consent on their
behalf. That is other than obtaining the permission of the participants.
In research, the information collected is treated confidentially and should not be shared with
other third parties. However, there are some situations where such information can be shared. To
avoid ethical violations, a researcher should be detailed on instances when information about a
client can be shared. That will protect them from possible litigation if that happens.
References:
Committee on Science, Engineering, and Public Policy. (1995). On being a scientist: Responsible
conduct in research. Retrieved from: http://www.nap.edu/readingroom/books/obas/
National Institute of Health. (n.d.). NIH. Retrieved from: http://www.nih.gov