Why is it important for researchers to disclose all foreseeable risks in consent forms?

Disclosing all foreseeable risks in consent forms is crucial for enabling informed decision-making by participants. Informed consent is a foundational ethical principle in research involving human subjects. It requires that potential participants receive comprehensive information about the study, including any potential risks they may face. By being aware of these risks, participants can weigh the potential benefits of the research against the risks involved and make a knowledgeable choice about whether to participate. This transparency respects the autonomy of participants and helps to foster trust between researchers and participants, which is essential for ethical research practices.

In contrast, concerns such as overshadowing the benefits, merely complying with policies, or attracting more participants do not address the fundamental ethical obligation to empower individuals with information necessary for their decision-making.