Which stakeholder is mainly involved in the ethical consideration of research studies?

The primary stakeholders involved in the ethical considerations of research studies are researchers and participants. Researchers have the responsibility to conduct their studies ethically, ensuring that their methods do not harm participants while also maintaining honesty in reporting their findings. They must obtain informed consent, meaning that participants are fully aware of what their involvement entails, including any risks or benefits.

Participants, on the other hand, are integral to the ethical framework, as their rights and well-being must be prioritized. Their willingness to participate should be based on comprehensive information about the study, and they should feel free to withdraw at any time without penalty. Together, these two groups form the core of ethical oversight in research, as a mutual understanding and respect for each other's roles are essential for conducting ethical research.

Other stakeholders, such as funding agencies, government regulators, and academic institutions, also play important roles in shaping research ethics, but their involvement is typically more focused on oversight, policy creation, and funding conditions rather than direct participation in ethical considerations.