Vulnerable Populations
Federal regulations require that IRBs give special consideration to protecting the welfare of individuals belonging to one or more vulnerable populations. Potentially vulnerable populations include research participants who are:
- Children / minors
- Pregnant
- Susceptible to coercion or undue influence (e.g., homeless, prisoners, institutionalized, terminally ill, socially or economically disadvantaged)
- Unable to comprehend the research and its potential risks (e.g., educationally disadvantaged or suffering mental illness, dementia, etc.)
- At higher risk for harm and/or economic, social, or legal consequences (e.g., individuals answering survey questions about their HIV status, drug use, sexual assault, etc.)
Increased protections for certain populations (pregnant women, prisoners, and children) have been established by federal regulations which are highlighted here along with an additional University-specific population.
Investigators wishing to recruit PASSAGE USA students must follow specific guidelines to ensure adequate protections are in place for this vulnerable population. These guidelines are detailed here.
If you have any questions regarding this guidance, please contact the IRB Administrator at irb@south棉花糖直播.edu or 251-460-6308.