A 17-year-old living independently wishes to participate in a medical research study. Does he need his parents' permission?

A 17-year-old living independently wishes to participate in a medical research study. Does he need his parents' permission?

• A. If emancipated or not financially dependent on their parents, living independently physically and financially then no
• B. Always need parental consent for minors in research
• C. Need guardian consent regardless of independence
• D. Need court approval for participation in research

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that emancipated minors or those who are independently living and financially self-supporting can consent for themselves in medical research. When a minor is considered emancipated, they have the same autonomy as an adult in making medical decisions, including agreeing to participate in research. In this scenario, a 17-year-old who is living independently and not financially dependent on his parents meets those criteria, so he can provide his own informed consent without needing his parents’ permission. Of course, the study’s risk level and local laws still apply, and the IRB would ensure he has the capacity to consent and address any appropriate assent if needed. If he were not emancipated or not independent, parental permission would typically be required.

The key idea is that emancipated minors or those who are independently living and financially self-supporting can consent for themselves in medical research. When a minor is considered emancipated, they have the same autonomy as an adult in making medical decisions, including agreeing to participate in research. In this scenario, a 17-year-old who is living independently and not financially dependent on his parents meets those criteria, so he can provide his own informed consent without needing his parents’ permission. Of course, the study’s risk level and local laws still apply, and the IRB would ensure he has the capacity to consent and address any appropriate assent if needed. If he were not emancipated or not independent, parental permission would typically be required.