Which principle is focused on protecting the autonomy and dignity of research participants?

• A. Beneficence
• B. Justice
• C. Respect for persons
• D. Confidentiality

Answer: (C)

The main concept tested is respecting participants as autonomous individuals and safeguarding their dignity throughout the research process. This principle, often called respect for persons, emphasizes that people should consent voluntarily to participate, receive complete information about the study, and have the right to withdraw at any time. It also calls for additional protections for those with diminished autonomy.

Beneficence focuses on maximizing benefits and minimizing potential harm, guiding risk–benefit assessments rather than autonomy itself. Justice concerns fair selection of subjects and equitable distribution of research benefits and burdens. Confidentiality relates to protecting private information as a practical safeguard, but it does not by itself encapsulate the drive to honor individuals’ autonomy and inherent dignity.