What is the purpose of obtaining child assent in addition to parental consent?

• A. To ensure the child's developing autonomy is respected by providing age-appropriate information and obtaining assent in addition to parental consent.
• B. To replace parental consent when necessary.
• C. To maximize enrollment by making participation easier for families.
• D. To avoid any parental involvement in the consent process.

Answer: (A)

Understanding assent is about honoring a child’s developing ability to have a say in decisions that affect them. Information about the study is explained in language the child can understand, and the child’s affirmative agreement to participate is sought in addition to obtaining permission from a parent or guardian. Parental consent remains essential because parents are responsible for the child’s welfare and must authorize involvement after weighing risks and benefits. Assent does not replace parental consent; it adds the child’s perspective and supports voluntary participation, recognizing that a willing, informed child is more ethically respected and less likely to experience coercion. The other options miss this ethical function: assent isn’t about replacing parents, it isn’t a tactic to boost enrollment, and it doesn’t remove parental involvement.