If the REB determines that the targeted population and prospective participants have the capacity to decide for themselves to participate, must the REB require parental authorization for minors?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Sometimes
• D. It depends

Answer: (B)

Capacity to decide for oneself is what determines consent in pediatric research. When the REB determines a minor has the ability to understand and freely choose whether to participate, the minor’s own consent is sufficient, and parental authorization is not required. This respects the autonomous decision of capable individuals, recognizing that mature minors can make informed choices about their involvement. In practice, researchers may still seek the minor’s assent and consider additional safeguards, but parental authorization isn’t mandated solely on the basis of capacity.