Is it permissible for researchers to compensate participants for their time?

Compensating participants for their time is permissible, provided that the compensation is structured in a way that does not coerce individuals into participating in the research. It is essential to ensure that the amount offered is not so high that it might unduly influence a person’s decision to participate, leading them to overlook potential risks or the voluntary nature of their involvement in the study. Ethical guidelines emphasize that compensation should reflect the time and effort required from participants without compromising their autonomy or the integrity of the research process.

When researchers offer compensation, it is important that it aligns with the principle of respect for persons, which includes recognizing the autonomy of individuals and ensuring that they are making informed decisions about their participation. Thus, compensation should be fair and reasonable, encouraging participation while maintaining ethical standards.