Final answer:
False. Counselors and researchers must obtain informed consent in written form, not just verbally. This process ensures that participants are fully informed of their rights, the study's risks, and benefits, and that their participation is voluntary and confidential. Children cannot provide consent for themselves; it must be provided by a parent or guardian.
Step-by-step explanation:
While obtaining verbal consent is important, counselors and researchers must obtain informed consent in a written form, not just verbally. This applies especially in research, counseling, and medical settings. The informed consent process involves informing clients or research participants about what to expect during the session or study, any risks involved, the implications of the research, and then obtaining the person’s consent to participate. This ensures that participants are fully aware of their rights, the confidentiality of their data, and the voluntary nature of their participation. It also involves a written description that must be read and signed by the participants or, if they are under the age of 18, their parents or legal guardians.
Parents can provide consent on behalf of their children as children are not considered competent to provide consent for themselves. Additionally, informed consent forms are a safeguard that confirms that all risks and benefits have been clearly outlined to the study participants, thus respecting their rights to privacy, dignity, and protection from personal harm.