(a) Topics disclosed.

1. (1) In obtaining informed consent for research, counselors use language that is understandable to research participants and that:

   1. (A) Accurately explains the purpose and procedures to be followed;
   2. (B) Identifies any procedures that are experimental or relatively untried;
   3. (C) Describes the attendant discomforts and risks;
   4. (D) Describes the benefits or changes in individuals and organizations that might be reasonably expected;
   5. (E) Discloses appropriate alternative procedures that would be advantageous for subjects;
   6. (F) Offers to answer any inquiries concerning the procedures;
   7. (G) Describes any limitations on confidentiality; and
   8. (H) Instructs that subjects are free to withdraw their consent and to discontinue participation in the project at any time.
2. (2) See 17 CAR § 390-201(f).

(c) Voluntary participation.

1. (1) Participation in research is typically voluntary and without penalty for refusal to participate.

2. (2) Involuntary participation is appropriate only when it can be demonstrated that participation:

   1. (A) Will have no harmful effects on subjects; and
   2. (B) Is essential to the investigation.

(d) Confidentiality of information.

1. (1) Information obtained about research participants during the course of an investigation is confidential.
2. (2) When the possibility exists that others may obtain access to such information, ethical research practice requires that the possibility, together with the plans for protecting confidentiality, be explained to participants as a part of the procedure for obtaining informed consent.
3. (3) See 17 CAR § 390-201(e).

(e) Persons incapable of giving informed consent. When a person is incapable of giving informed consent, counselors:

1. (1) Provide an appropriate explanation;
2. (2) Obtain agreement for participation; and
3. (3) Obtain appropriate consent from a legally authorized person.

(g) Explanations after data collection.

1. (1) After data is collected, counselors provide participants with full clarification of the nature of the study to remove any misconceptions.
2. (2) Where scientific or human values justify delaying or withholding information, counselors take reasonable measures to avoid causing harm.

(i) Informed consent for sponsors.

1. (1) In the pursuit of research, counselors give sponsors, institutions, and publication channels the same respect and opportunity for giving informed consent that they accord to individual research participants.
2. (2) Counselors are aware of their obligation to future research workers and ensure that host institutions are given feedback information and proper acknowledgement.