What is the main purpose of a consent form in research?

The main purpose of a consent form in research is to facilitate informed consent from participants. This document is essential in ensuring that participants understand the nature of the study, the risks and benefits involved, their rights, and what their participation entails. Informed consent is a fundamental principle of ethical research practice, emphasizing that individuals should make voluntary and informed decisions about their involvement in a study.

A well-structured consent form conveys all necessary information in clear language, allowing participants to weigh their options and to ask questions if they have any. This process respects the autonomy of participants, which is a core ethical consideration in human subjects research. Ensuring that participants are fully informed helps build trust and enhances the ethical integrity of the research.