What ethical consideration was made in Brendgen's study?

• A. All children were informed of the study's intent
• B. Written consent was obtained from parents
• C. Participants were given a monetary incentive
• D. No ethical approval was required

Answer: (B)

In Brendgen's study, obtaining written consent from parents was an essential ethical consideration that ensured the rights and welfare of child participants were protected. In research involving minors, it is crucial to secure permission from a parent or guardian before participating in the study. This process respects the autonomy and decision-making capacity of parents regarding their children's involvement in research, and helps protect the children from any potential risks associated with participation.

While informing children about the study's intent or offering incentives might also be ethical considerations, they are not as foundational as obtaining parental consent. Additionally, ethical approval is typically required for studies involving human participants, especially vulnerable populations like children, making the suggestion that no approval was needed inappropriate in this context.