US High School Psychology Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The ethical principle pertaining to informing participants about a study and obtaining their consent is known as informed consent. This principle emphasizes the importance of transparency between researchers and participants. It ensures that individuals understand the nature of the research, including potential risks, benefits, and their right to withdraw at any time without repercussions. This principle is fundamental in upholding the autonomy of participants, allowing them to make educated decisions about their involvement in research.

Confidentiality relates to the protection of personal information in research, while deception refers to situations where researchers might withhold certain information or mislead participants regarding the study's purpose. Debriefing involves providing participants with information about the study after its conclusion, especially if deception was used, but it comes into play after consent has already been obtained. Informed consent is essential before any research activities begin, making it a crucial element of ethical research practices.