Which groups are specifically protected under federal regulations 45 CFR 46?

The correct answer highlights specific populations that receive additional protections under federal regulations, particularly in the context of research. Under 45 CFR 46, which governs the protection of human subjects in research, certain groups are recognized as requiring additional safeguards due to their vulnerable status.

Children, for instance, are considered a protected group because they are not able to give informed consent; their involvement in research necessitates extra ethical considerations to ensure their welfare. Similarly, prisoners are recognized as a vulnerable population due to their restricted freedom and psychological and social pressures, which may influence their ability to make voluntary decisions about participation in research. Pregnant women are included as well, as their participation in research could have implications for both their health and that of their fetus, warranting special ethical consideration.

The other options do not align with the specific protections outlined in 45 CFR 46. While the elderly and individuals with mental illness or disabilities might face unique challenges, they do not receive the same level of explicit federal protections within the research context as the groups indicated in the correct answer. This differentiation is crucial for understanding ethical standards set forth for the protection of research participants.