Abstract

KIE: Pragmatic issues surrounding nontherapeutic research on children are discussed. The author holds that independent ethics committees, comprised of members who are not directly connected with the research and who act as advocates for the children, are essential. Parents and personal physicians should be approached by letter for permission to include children in research, in order to allow maximum consideration and avoid intimidation. Parents as well as minor children should be provided with sufficient information to allow for informed consent. The author argues that all children over the age of ten should have the right to refuse participation. Since children may be considered "captive subjects," investigators should adopt an overcompensatory approach.