Which group is particularly protected under Subpart D of federal regulations?

Subpart D of federal regulations specifically addresses the protections for children involved in research. This section recognizes that individuals in certain age groups, particularly those who are minors, require additional safeguards due to their vulnerability and the unique ethical considerations that arise when conducting research involving them.

In this context, adolescents aged 12 to 17 fall under the definition of children according to federal regulations. This group is afforded special protections to ensure their rights and well-being are prioritized during research activities. The regulations focus on ensuring that informed consent is obtained appropriately, considering the capacity of adolescents to understand the implications of their participation.

While children under the age of 12 are also protected, the primary focus of Subpart D is on the rights and welfare of minors up to the age of consent, which includes adolescents. The other groups mentioned, such as employees of educational institutions and adults participating in research, do not receive the same level of targeted protections outlined in Subpart D since it is primarily concerned with minors. This specificity leads to the conclusion that adolescents aged 12 to 17 are indeed a particularly protected group under these regulations.