What is the process called where participants learn about a study's purpose and any deceptions after the study has concluded?

The process where participants learn about a study's purpose and any deceptions after the study has concluded is known as debriefing. This essential step allows the researchers to clarify the aims of the study, reveal any manipulations or false information that may have been used during the study, and provide participants with the opportunity to ask questions. Debriefing is important for ethical considerations, as it helps ensure that participants leave the study with a complete understanding of their experience and alleviates any potential distress caused by the deception.

Informed consent pertains to the process of ensuring that participants are fully aware of what participation involves before they agree to take part. Confidentiality refers to the ethical practice of keeping participant information private and secure. Sampling bias involves systematic errors in the selection process of participants, which can affect the generalizability of study findings. None of these terms fit the situation described as accurately as debriefing does.