What is the primary purpose of informed consent in research?

The primary purpose of informed consent in research is to provide subjects with the information necessary for informed decision-making. This process ensures that participants understand what the research involves, including its purpose, procedures, risks, and benefits. By equipping them with this knowledge, participants can make an educated choice about their involvement in the study, ensuring that their autonomy is respected.

This concept is fundamental to ethical research practices, as it emphasizes the importance of participants’ voluntary and informed participation. It underscores the researcher’s responsibility to communicate clearly and effectively with potential participants about the study, fostering trust and transparency in the research process.