What is the role of debriefing in TCPS 2 studies involving deception?

• A. Reveal true purpose, clarify any misconceptions, discuss risks and benefits, and address participant concerns.
• B. Conceal the true purpose to protect participants.
• C. Focus solely on compensating participants after the study.
• D. Debriefing is optional and unregulated.

Answer: (A)

Debriefing after deception is about openly informing participants what really happened and addressing any impact the deception may have had. In TCPS 2, deception is allowed only when necessary and when the overall risk is not greater than acceptable. The debriefing step ensures respect for persons and welfare by: revealing the true purpose of the study, clarifying any misconceptions, explaining why deception was used, and discussing the actual risks and benefits. It also provides a space for participants to ask questions, voice concerns, and receive any needed support or referrals. This process helps restore trust and ensures participants leave the study with an accurate understanding of what occurred. The other options would conceal information, reduce the process to compensation, or treat debriefing as optional, which TCPS 2 does not permit.