6: KKDP 3: Ethical implications in mental health study and research

Question 1

People with a mental disorder:

Answer 1

Are particularly vulnerable as research participants, as researchers must take into account that some people with mental disorders may have one or more cognitive impairments that diminish their capacity for decision making.

Question 2

Informed consent:

Answer 2

Participants must be able to understand the proposed research, the nature of their involvement and the associated risks.

Question 3

Informed consent concern:

Answer 3

Understanding can be difficult when a mental disorder impairs cognitive functioning

Question 4

Placebo:

Answer 4

Placebo treatments are used to determine the effectiveness of a new or improved medication.

Question 5

Placebo is:

Answer 5

Ethically justifiable

Question 6

Placebo concern:

Answer 6

Researchers who intentionally withhold an effective treatment from people who genuinely need the treatment and are therefore are allowed to remain unwell may suffer as a consequence.