What does the term "potential risks" refer to in research studies?

The term "potential risks" in research studies primarily refers to risks that can cause harm to participants. This encompasses a broad range of possible negative outcomes, including physical, psychological, social, and legal harms that may arise from participating in a study. It's essential for researchers to identify and evaluate these risks to ensure that they are minimized and that the study complies with ethical standards.

Understanding potential risks is crucial for informed consent, as participants must be made aware of what they might face when agreeing to take part in research. Evaluating and addressing these risks helps protect participants and promotes responsible research practices. This focus on participant welfare aligns with the ethical guidelines that govern human subject research.

Other options, while they may touch on aspects of risk in research, do not fully encompass the broad and critical nature of "potential risks" as it pertains specifically to participant harm, which is a central concern for institutional review boards and ethical research practices.