What is the primary goal of informed consent in research?

The primary goal of informed consent in research is to disclose potential risks and benefits to participants. Informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle in research involving human subjects. It ensures that participants are fully aware of what participation entails, including any risks they may face, the purpose of the study, the procedures involved, and the potential benefits they might receive from their involvement.

This process allows individuals to make informed decisions about their participation, respecting their autonomy and right to choose whether or not to engage in the research. By clearly communicating the risks and benefits, researchers uphold ethical standards and build trust with participants, which is crucial for the integrity of the research process.

Protecting the researcher from liability, collecting personal data, or simplifying the enrollment process may have some relevance in specific contexts, but these are not the primary ethical focuses of informed consent. Instead, the emphasis is on ensuring participants have a clear understanding of what they consent to, thereby fostering an ethical and respectful research environment.