What is one criterion for using incomplete disclosure in research?

Incomplete disclosure in research is sometimes necessary to prevent bias or to ensure the integrity of the study. One important criterion for using incomplete disclosure is that no undisclosed risks should exceed minimal risks. This is vital because ethical research practices prioritize the safety and well-being of participants. If the risks associated with the research were greater than minimal, participants would need to be fully informed to make an educated decision regarding their participation.

When researchers opt for incomplete disclosure, it's imperative to ensure that participants are not exposed to significant risks without their knowledge. This criterion aligns with the ethical principles outlined in the Belmont Report, which emphasizes respect for persons, beneficence, and justice. By maintaining the threshold of minimal risks for undisclosed information, researchers uphold ethical standards while still obtaining valuable data.

The other options presented do not appropriately align with the principles governing informed consent and ethical research conduct, making them unsuitable in this context. Thus, the selection of this option captures the essential ethical requirement inherent in the use of incomplete disclosure.