Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Practice Test

Informed consent requires that the participants have what essential attribute?

1. Access to all information

2. Full understanding

3. Decision-making capacity

4. Time to consider options

The correct answer is: Decision-making capacity

Informed consent is a fundamental aspect of ethical practice, particularly in the field of applied behavior analysis and other research-related areas. One essential attribute that participants must possess is decision-making capacity. This means that individuals must have the ability to understand the information provided to them about the procedure, comprehend the potential consequences, and make an informed choice regarding their participation. This attribute is crucial because without decision-making capacity, the validity of the consent may be compromised. It ensures that participants can evaluate the risks and benefits, engage with the information received, and make a choice that reflects their values and preferences. Informed consent is not merely about providing information; it fundamentally requires that participants are in a position to make decisions based on that information. While access to all information, full understanding, and time to consider options are important aspects of the consent process, they rely on the participants having the necessary decision-making capacity to critically engage with this information. Thus, decision-making capacity is the key attribute that underpins the entire informed consent process, ensuring ethical standards are upheld by recognizing participants as autonomous individuals capable of making informed choices.