Final answer:
The false statement about consent is that it must 'be obtained from an individual 16 years of age or older,' as this can vary depending on jurisdiction and scenario. Informed consent is crucial, requiring full disclosure of study details to ensure voluntary participation, especially when minors are involved.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that is FALSE about consent is 'e) be obtained from an individual 16 years of age or older.' While age is an important factor in the capacity to give consent, the age at which an individual is considered competent can vary by jurisdiction and by scenario. Generally, adults can provide informed consent for themselves, and parents or legal guardians provide consent for children. However, in some circumstances, minors can provide their own consent.
In the context of experiments, the ethical principle of informed consent requires that participants are fully informed about the study and its implications. They should know the potential risks and benefits, and their participation should be voluntary, without any misrepresentation or fraud. If the participant is a minor, their parent or legal guardian is typically required to consent on their behalf.
Violations of informed consent can occur in various ways, such as when inmates are coerced into participation by the offer of good behavior credit or when participants are not fully informed about the nature of a study, like the distribution of a placebo. Researchers must uphold ethical standards, including protecting participant confidentiality, ensuring the safety of participants, and respecting their privacy and dignity.