Certification for IRB Professionals (CIP) Practice Exam

What is an example of how the principle of beneficence is applied to a study involving human subjects?

1. Ensuring that risks are reasonable in relationship to anticipated benefits

2. Providing monetary compensation for participation

3. Meeting governmental regulations for study design

4. Obtaining signed consent from all participants

The correct answer is: Ensuring that risks are reasonable in relationship to anticipated benefits

The principle of beneficence in research involving human subjects emphasizes the obligation to minimize harm and maximize potential benefits to participants. Ensuring that risks are reasonable in relation to anticipated benefits directly embodies this principle. It requires researchers to carefully assess the potential risks participants may face against the expected benefits of the research, which aligns with the ethical commitment to protect participants from unnecessary harm while still seeking to advance knowledge. This consideration is fundamental because it helps promote ethical research practices by requiring that any risks taken are justified by the prospective positive outcomes, either for participants themselves or for broader societal benefits. In contrast, other options address important aspects of research ethics but do not specifically reflect the application of the principle of beneficence. For instance, providing monetary compensation may incentivize participation but does not directly relate to the ethical consideration of risks versus benefits. Meeting governmental regulations ensures compliance but is more about legal adherence than ethical considerations of beneficence. Similarly, obtaining signed consent is crucial for respecting autonomy, yet it does not inherently involve the assessment of risks and benefits central to beneficence.