Final answer:
Informed consent does not always need to be in written form, though it is considered best practice, especially for formal research. Verbal consent may suffice in certain circumstances. The most important element is that participants are fully informed about the study and their rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that informed consent must always be written is false. While written consent is the standard practice, particularly for medical procedures, sociocultural, and clinical studies, it is not always mandatory. In certain situations, verbal consent may be sufficient provided that all risks and benefits are clearly outlined to the participant. The key aspects of informed consent include informing study participants of all relevant aspects of the study before they provide consent, and ensuring their participation is voluntary and can be discontinued at any time without penalty.
Understanding Informed Consent
Informed consent is a critical aspect of research ethics, and an institution's IRB (Institutional Review Board) often requires a signed informed consent form before any participation in an experiment. This ensures that the person is making an informed decision about their involvement.
However, there are instances where verbal consent is acceptable and practical, such as in some field research scenarios or in emergency medical situations where a written form may not be feasible. It's also noteworthy that for individuals who are underage, such as minors, consent must typically be obtained from a parent or legal guardian.
Potential Informed Consent Violations
- Offering inmates good behavior credit to participate in a study.
- Informing participants that a medication is highly promising without disclosing the use of a placebo.