Why are minors considered a vulnerable population in research?

Minors are considered a vulnerable population in research primarily because they may have limited understanding of the risks and benefits associated with participation in a study. This limited comprehension can stem from their developmental stage, which affects their ability to fully grasp complex information about research protocols, potential dangers, and the implications of participating in research. Consequently, this vulnerability necessitates additional protections when minors are involved in research activities, ensuring that their rights and welfare are prioritized.

While the ability to communicate and legal capacity to provide consent are also considerations, the core issue lies in their potential difficulty in understanding the nuances of participation in research. This understanding is critical to ensure informed consent or assent, which further highlights the ethical responsibility of researchers to ensure that minors' participation is appropriate and safeguarded based on their level of comprehension.