Which groups are specifically protected under federal regulations in research?

The correct answer identifies pregnant women, prisoners, and children as groups specifically protected under federal regulations in research. These protections stem from the recognition that these populations may have limited ability to give informed consent due to various factors, which places them at greater risk during research participation.

Children, for example, are considered unable to fully grasp the complexities of informed consent, thus requiring additional protections to ensure their safety and well-being. Federal regulations mandate that research involving children must include ethical considerations that prioritize their rights and welfare.

Prisoners are recognized as a vulnerable population due to potential coercion and restricted autonomy within the correctional system. The regulations stipulate that research involving prisoners must ensure that their participation is entirely voluntary and free from coercive influences, while also addressing specific ethical considerations unique to their circumstances.

Pregnant women are also provided special protections due to the potential risks involved not only to the woman but also to the fetus. Federal guidelines require careful assessment of research protocols to safeguard the health and welfare of both the mother and the unborn child.

These groups are thus afforded specific regulatory protections to ensure ethical treatment and to minimize risks associated with their unique vulnerabilities in the context of research.