Which of the following statements about research involving children is true?

The statement regarding risk levels needing to be minimized and justified for research involving children is accurate because ethical guidelines and regulations emphasize the protection of vulnerable populations, including minors. When conducting research with children, researchers are mandated to undertake rigorous assessments to ensure that any potential risks are minimized as much as possible. Furthermore, if there are inherent risks associated with the research, these must be clearly justified in relation to the potential benefits of the study.

This principle is grounded in ethical standards set forth by institutional review boards (IRBs) and organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA), ensuring that the welfare of child participants is prioritized. It reflects a broader commitment to ethical research practices that safeguard participants, particularly those who may not be able to make fully informed decisions on their own.

The other options do not align with established ethical standards. For instance, children typically require parental consent when participating in research, and researchers must prioritize children's well-being when designing studies instead of disregarding their best interests. Additionally, contrary to the notion that children are exempt from regulations, research involving them falls under specific ethical guidelines that must be strictly adhered to.