How does the Belmont Report define 'maleficence'?

The Belmont Report defines 'maleficence' as the obligation to avoid causing harm to research participants. This principle is foundational in ethical research practice, ensuring that researchers actively seek to minimize any risks or potential harm their studies may impose on participants. The concept emphasizes the importance of protecting individuals from physical, psychological, and emotional harm throughout the research process.

In research ethics, maleficence is paired with the principle of beneficence, which promotes doing good and maximizing benefits for participants. Together, these principles guide researchers in designing studies that respect and safeguard the well-being of participants, recognizing their rights and welfare.

The other options reflect important ethical considerations but do not accurately describe maleficence. For instance, preventing coercive actions and prioritizing participant interests align more closely with the principles of respect for persons and beneficence, respectively, while the responsibility to report all findings relates to transparency and honesty in research rather than the direct avoidance of harm.