In research involving human subjects, what is a primary objective of ethical guidelines?

In research involving human subjects, a primary objective of ethical guidelines is to offer a framework for resolving ethical dilemmas. These guidelines are designed to protect the rights, welfare, and dignity of participants by establishing principles that researchers must follow. This includes informed consent, risk assessment, and the fair treatment of participants. Ethical dilemmas often arise in the research process, and having a structured set of guidelines helps researchers navigate these challenges while ensuring the integrity of the research and the safety of its subjects.

By providing this framework, ethical guidelines promote accountability and transparency in research practices, helping to prevent exploitation and misconduct. Researchers can refer to these established ethical standards to guide their decision-making and address any conflicts that might arise during the study. In this way, the ethical guidelines serve as an essential tool for maintaining public trust in research activities involving human subjects.