Which one of the following are considered vulnerable populations from an ethical point of view? (Select all that apply.)

Question

a. Students
b. Persons with osteoporosis who are subject to hip fracture
c. Persons who are depressed
d. Prisoners
e. Persons who have recently suffered loss of a spouse

Answer 1

ANS: A, D
Some persons have diminished autonomy or are vulnerable and less advantaged because of legal or mental incompetence, terminal illness, or confinement to an institution. These persons require additional protection of their right to self-determination, because they have a decreased ability, or an inability, to give informed consent. In addition, these persons are vulnerable to coercion and deception. The U.S. DHHS has identified certain vulnerable groups of individuals, including pregnant women, human fetuses, neonates, children, mentally incompetent persons, and prisoners, who require additional protection in the conduct of research. Sometimes students feel forced to participate in research to protect their grades or prevent negative relationships with the faculty conducting the research.