Certification for IRB Professionals (CIP) Practice Exam

What is true about inducements in research?

1. Inducements can constitute an "undue influence" if they affect decision-making.

2. Inducements are always positive and beneficial for research.

3. Inducements are necessary for ensuring participant enrollment.

4. Inducements have no effect on the decisions of potential subjects.

The correct answer is: Inducements can constitute an "undue influence" if they affect decision-making.

Inducements in research refer to the benefits offered to participants to encourage their involvement in a study. Understanding the nuances of inducements is crucial, especially in relation to ethical guidelines surrounding informed consent and potential influence on decision-making. The notion that inducements can constitute an "undue influence" is significant because it highlights the ethical considerations that researchers must take into account. If inducements are perceived as too enticing or valuable, they may compromise a participant's ability to make a voluntary and informed choice. This situation presents a risk of coercion, where individuals feel pressured to participate due to the appealing nature of the benefits provided, rather than based on their genuine interest or understanding of the study. Recognizing this potential for undue influence encourages IRB professionals and researchers to carefully evaluate the nature and scale of incentives used in studies. While inducements can be beneficial in appealing to participants, they must be implemented judiciously to uphold the ethical principle of respect for persons, ensuring that participation in research is genuinely voluntary and not swayed unduly by potential benefits. Understanding this aspect of inducements helps to frame the ethical landscape of human subjects research and reinforces the importance of maintaining integrity in the recruitment process. The other statements may simplify or misrepresent the role of inducements