Which ethical principle ensures participants are aware of their role in research?

Informed consent is the ethical principle that ensures participants are fully aware of their role in research. This concept requires researchers to provide potential participants with all necessary information about the study, including the purpose, procedures, potential risks, benefits, and their right to withdraw at any time without penalty. By obtaining informed consent, researchers respect the autonomy of participants, allowing them to make an independent decision about their participation based on a clear understanding of what the research entails.

This principle is fundamental for maintaining ethical standards in research, as it fosters trust between researchers and participants and promotes transparency. By ensuring that individuals are adequately informed, researchers uphold the integrity of the research process and protect the rights and welfare of participants.