What is the key difference between assent and consent?

The distinction between assent and consent is fundamentally rooted in the nature of legal permission and understanding regarding participation in research or treatment. Consent is defined as a legal act indicating that an individual, typically an adult, agrees to participate after being fully informed about the study's procedures, risks, benefits, and their rights. This implies a comprehensive understanding and acknowledgment of the implications of participation.

On the other hand, assent refers to a younger participant's or someone who may not be fully legally competent's agreement to allow themselves to be part of research or a procedure. While assent requires an understanding appropriate for the individual's age and cognitive abilities, it does not serve as a legal substitute for consent. Therefore, the main distinction is that consent pertains to legal permission and informed understanding, whereas assent is more about a person’s agreement to participate, acknowledging their ability to understand in a contextually appropriate manner.

This clarity in definition emphasizes the importance of both processes in ethical research practices. Consent highlights the legal and thorough nature of participant agreement, while assent acknowledges the voice of those who may not be fully capable of giving informed consent but who nonetheless can express a willingness to participate.