But is this Really the 'Parent' or 'Guardian'? Practical Strategies for Consent to Child Research in South Africa

RESUMO

Research ethics committees (RECs) in South Africa may require consent from a parent or legal guardian for child research. In instances where an REC determines that parental or guardianship consent is required; how far should researchers go to establish if the accompanying adult is in fact the parent or guardian? Should researchers accept disclosures at face value; probe assertions that are made; or even call for supporting documentation? In this article we set out the facts research staff should possess; propose key questions they could ask; and recommend practical steps for uncertain cases. We recognise that a parental/guardianship consent strategy may not be appropriate in all instances; but do not debate that issue in this article. This article is confined to practical advice for researchers wishing to implement a parental or guardianship consent approach: