What is the main purpose of obtaining informed consent from participants?

Obtaining informed consent primarily serves to respect participants' autonomy. This means that individuals have the right to make informed decisions about their participation in research studies. When researchers provide potential participants with clear information about the study's purpose, procedures, risks, and benefits, they empower individuals to understand what they are agreeing to and to voluntarily decide whether to participate.

Informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle in research involving human subjects, emphasizing the importance of individuals' rights to make choices about their involvement based on their understanding. By ensuring that participants are fully informed, researchers promote transparency and trust, which are essential components of ethical research practice. This respect for autonomy enhances the integrity of the research process and fosters a sense of collaboration between researchers and participants.