What is "assent" in research involving minors?

In research involving minors, "assent" refers to a minor's agreement to participate in research after being provided with age-appropriate information. This concept acknowledges that while minors may not have the legal capacity to provide full informed consent on their own, they still deserve the opportunity to understand the research and express their willingness to participate.

The process of obtaining assent involves communicating in a way that is understandable for the minor, ensuring that they can grasp the basic elements of the study, including what it is about, any potential risks, and their right to withdraw at any time. This ethical practice respects the autonomy of the minor and engages them in the decision-making process regarding their involvement in research.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately define assent. For instance, consent obtained from parents is related to parental permission rather than the minor’s personal agreement. A minor’s refusal to participate does not align with the concept of assent, as it specifically pertains to agreement rather than dissent. Lastly, a formal contract signed by minors is not a common practice in research ethics, as it typically involves legal implications that go beyond the concept of assent in research contexts.