The Belmont principle of beneficence requires that: Risks are managed so that they are no more than minimal. Risks to subjects are reasonable in relation to anticipated benefits. Subjects derive individual benefit from study participation. The study makes a significant contribution to generalizable knowledge.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The Belmont Report, a foundational document in research ethics, outlines three core principles: respect for persons, beneficence, and justice. The principle of beneficence specifically mandates that researchers maximize potential benefits and minimize possible harms to participants. This involves ensuring that risks to subjects are reasonable in relation to anticipated benefits and that efforts are made to minimize these risks.
Among the statements provided, the one that accurately reflects the Belmont principle of beneficence is: “Risks to subjects are reasonable in relation to anticipated benefits.” This aligns with the report’s directive that the potential benefits of research should justify any risks involved. The Belmont Report emphasizes that “beneficence thus requires that we protect against risk of harm to subjects and also that we be concerned about the loss of the substantial benefits that might be gained from research.”
The other statements, while related to research ethics, do not precisely capture the essence of beneficence as defined in the Belmont Report:
- “Risks are managed so that they are no more than minimal.” This pertains to minimizing risk, but beneficence allows for more than minimal risk if justified by potential benefits.
- “Subjects derive individual benefit from study participation.” Beneficence does not require that each participant personally benefit, but rather that the overall benefits justify the risks.
- “The study makes a significant contribution to generalizable knowledge.” This relates to the value of the research but does not directly address the risk-benefit assessment central to beneficence.
In summary, the Belmont principle of beneficence requires that the risks to subjects are reasonable in relation to the anticipated benefits, ensuring a favorable balance that justifies the ethical conduct of the research.