What term refers to the agreement of minors to participate in research, given that they also receive information and understanding appropriate to their age?

The term that refers to minors agreeing to participate in research, while also being provided with information suited to their understanding and age, is informed assent. Informed assent is a crucial concept in research ethics when it involves minors, as it recognizes that while minor participants cannot legally give full consent due to their age, they can still agree to participate when given appropriate information. This process involves explaining the nature of the research, the risks and benefits, and ensuring that the minors comprehend this information to the best of their abilities.

Informed consent typically applies to adults who can make autonomous decisions regarding their participation in research, whereas informed assent emphasizes the understanding and agreement of younger participants. Debriefing relates to giving participants information about the study after it has concluded, ensuring that they understand what the research involved, and confidentiality pertains to the protection of a participant’s private information during and after the study. These definitions further clarify the significance of informed assent in the context of involving minors in research.