What are "human subject protections" in research?

Human subject protections in research refer to a set of guidelines and regulations designed to safeguard the rights and welfare of individuals who participate in research studies. These protections are essential to ensure that participants are treated ethically and can make informed decisions about their involvement in research.

The focus of these protections is to prevent harm, ensure voluntary participation, and respect the autonomy of participants. This includes obtaining informed consent, ensuring privacy and confidentiality, and conducting risk assessments before beginning research.

The other options do not align with the core purpose of human subject protections. While rules might exist that impact researchers or funding, their primary aim is not to protect research subjects. Therefore, the designated framework of human subject protections emphasizes the commitment to maintaining ethical standards in research involving people, highlighting the importance of participant welfare and rights.