Consent, assent and randomised evaluations

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Background:
Randomised trials have been on the rise in social policy over the last decade and a half, particularly in areas working with young people and vulnerable adults. Informed consent is an important principle for ethics committees governing research conducted by universities.

Aims and objectives:
We consider the arguments for and against opt-in consent by parents, and opt-out assent, when it comes to trials taking place, particularly in schools.

Methods:
We review what is known about this from a methodological standpoint.

Findings:
We find that extant evidence suggests that requiring opt-in consent, rather than assent, to participation, risks reducing the ethical standards of trials by minimising participation; and by potentially risking disclosure of sensitive information about a child’s life to their parents. Moreover, there are important equity considerations, with more vulnerable groups likely to be excluded from research findings under an opt-in framework.

Discussion and conclusion:
We conclude that the ethical argument for assent rather than consent is compelling under some circumstances, and should be considered on a case-by-case basis. Precautions must always be taken to safeguard participants.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)591-602
Number of pages12
JournalEvidence and Policy: A Journal of Research, Debate and Practice, The Policy Press, University of Bristol
Volume19
Issue number4
Early online date9 Jun 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2023

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