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Children, Gillick competency and consent for involvement in research
1School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Cromore Road, Coleraine BT52 1SA. d.hunter3@ulster.ac.uk
Journal of Medical Ethics
|November 1, 2007
Summary
This paper examines the applicability of Gillick competency for child consent in research, arguing it
Area of Science:
- Bioethics
- Pediatric Research Ethics
- Child Consent
Background:
- Gillick competency is used in healthcare for child consent.
- Its application in research participation requires careful consideration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate whether Gillick competency is appropriate for research involving children.
- To identify potential conflicts of interest and challenges in applying this standard in research.
Main Methods:
- Critical analysis of the Gillick competency test.
- Examination of ethical considerations for child consent in research settings.
Main Results:
- Gillick competency, as broadly used in medicine, is not directly suitable for research consent.
- Researcher bias and training are significant concerns when researchers assess competency.
- Exceptions exist for research with significant participant benefit or societal value with minimal risk.
Conclusions:
- Gillick competency assessment for research should be conducted by an independent party.
- This ensures genuine respect for child autonomy and mitigates researcher bias.
- Safeguards are necessary for ethical child participation in research.
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