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Institutional Review Board issues related to special populations
F R Ferraro1, L Orvedal, J J Plaud
1Department of Psychology, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks 58202-8380, USA. ferraro@badlands.nodak.edu
Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) protect human subjects in research. This article examines IRB challenges with vulnerable populations like children and cognitively impaired individuals, offering solutions.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Clinical Research Oversight
Background:
- Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) are crucial for ethical research conduct.
- Historically, research involving special populations has raised ethical concerns.
- Vulnerable groups, including children and individuals with cognitive impairments, require specific protections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the role of IRBs in research.
- To explore challenges IRBs face when reviewing research involving special populations.
- To provide a historical context for research with these groups.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on IRB functions and ethical considerations.
- Historical analysis of research involving vulnerable populations.
- Case study examination of IRB issue resolution.
Main Results:
- IRBs play a vital role in safeguarding research participants.
- Special populations present unique ethical and logistical challenges for IRBs.
- Historical research practices with vulnerable groups have evolved significantly.
Conclusions:
- Effective IRB protocols are essential for ethical research with all populations.
- Addressing the specific needs of vulnerable individuals is paramount for ethical research.
- Case studies demonstrate practical approaches to resolving complex IRB issues.
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