What do the terms consent and assent mean? Aren they the same thing?
Both consent and assent involve informing potential participants about the research and its risks and benefits, and documenting their understanding and agreement to participate. The reason the different terms are used has to do with the age of the participants. In research involving adults, consent is obtained from individuals to participate in the study. In research involving minors, a parent must give permission to allow the child to participate in the research, and children who are able to understand information about participation are asked to assent or agree to participate as well.
