Informed Consent

Definition

Informed consent is the process of obtaining permission from an individual before conducting an interview or gathering sensitive information, ensuring that the person fully understands what participation involves. This includes clearly explaining the purpose of the interview, how the information will be used, and any potential risks, thus protecting the rights and privacy of the interviewee.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Informed consent is not just a one-time agreement; it can be an ongoing process throughout the interview.
2. It is essential for building trust between the interviewer and the interviewee, as it shows respect for the individual's autonomy.
3. Informed consent forms can vary based on the context of the interview, such as academic research versus journalistic interviews.
4. Certain vulnerable populations may require additional considerations to ensure informed consent is properly obtained.
5. Failing to obtain informed consent can lead to ethical violations and legal repercussions for the interviewer.

Review Questions

• How does informed consent contribute to establishing trust between the interviewer and interviewee?
  • Informed consent contributes significantly to building trust by ensuring that interviewees are aware of their rights and understand what they are agreeing to. When interviewers provide clear explanations about the purpose of the interview and how the information will be used, it fosters transparency. This respect for the interviewee's autonomy and privacy encourages a more open and honest dialogue, ultimately leading to richer and more meaningful responses.
• Discuss how informed consent is relevant in interviews with vulnerable subjects and what additional steps might be necessary.
  • Informed consent is particularly crucial when interviewing vulnerable subjects, such as children or individuals with cognitive impairments, as these groups may not fully understand what they are consenting to. Additional steps might include simplifying language, using visual aids, or involving guardians in the consent process. Interviewers should also ensure that these subjects feel safe and empowered to ask questions about their participation, thereby reinforcing ethical standards in their interviewing practices.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of informed consent in balancing public interest with individual rights during interviews.
  • Informed consent plays a pivotal role in balancing public interest with individual rights, especially when dealing with sensitive topics or public figures. While journalists may argue that certain interviews serve a greater public good, it is imperative to respect the individual's right to privacy and control over their personal narrative. Ethical interviewing requires careful consideration of how information is obtained and shared, ensuring that individuals are not exploited for the sake of public interest without their explicit agreement.

Related terms

Confidentiality:

The ethical principle of keeping sensitive information private and ensuring that personal data is not disclosed without consent.

Ethics: A set of moral principles that guide behavior and decision-making in professional contexts, including interviewing practices.

Privacy: The right of individuals to control their personal information and to decide who can access or use that information.