Deception in research poses a risk to which Belmont principle?

Deception in research poses a risk to which Belmont principle?

• A. Respect for persons
• B. Beneficence
• C. Justice
• D. Privacy

Answer: (A)

Deception in research threatens the autonomy and informed consent that respect for persons requires. When participants aren’t told the true purpose, procedures, or risks, they can’t make a fully voluntary and knowledgeable decision about participation or withdrawal, which violates their right to self-determination. While deception can raise concerns about other principles like beneficence or privacy, the most direct risk is to individuals’ ability to make an informed choice. If deception is considered, it must be justified and followed by thorough debriefing to restore autonomy and minimize potential harm, echoing the emphasis on respecting persons throughout research.

Deception in research threatens the autonomy and informed consent that respect for persons requires. When participants aren’t told the true purpose, procedures, or risks, they can’t make a fully voluntary and knowledgeable decision about participation or withdrawal, which violates their right to self-determination. While deception can raise concerns about other principles like beneficence or privacy, the most direct risk is to individuals’ ability to make an informed choice. If deception is considered, it must be justified and followed by thorough debriefing to restore autonomy and minimize potential harm, echoing the emphasis on respecting persons throughout research.