What is a major concern in studies involving minors or incapacitated individuals?

In studies involving minors or incapacitated individuals, obtaining informed consent is a fundamental ethical requirement. Informed consent ensures that participants, or their legal guardians in the case of minors or incapacitated individuals, are adequately informed about the nature of the research, its potential risks and benefits, and their right to withdraw at any time without penalty. Informed consent is critical for respecting the autonomy and welfare of vulnerable populations, ensuring that they are protected and that their participation is based on a clear understanding of what the study entails.

Although other considerations such as compensation for participation, the relationships between participants and researchers, and the timing of research publication can be important in different contexts, they do not hold the same essential priority as informed consent when it comes to ethical research practices involving vulnerable groups. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the necessity of ensuring ethical standards regarding consent in research involving minors or incapacitated individuals.