Which protection is recommended for psychological risks?

Providing counseling support is recommended for addressing psychological risks as it creates a safety net for participants who may experience emotional distress or psychological challenges during or after a research study. This support offers participants a tangible resource for coping with any potential negative feelings, ensuring their mental well-being is prioritized throughout the research process.

Counseling support can help mitigate the impacts of stress, anxiety, or other psychological concerns that may arise in response to study participation, especially in sensitive research areas. This aligns with ethical research principles aimed at protecting participant welfare and maintaining their dignity. Offering counseling can also encourage a more open and supportive environment, fostering trust between researchers and participants.

While substantial financial rewards, encouraging full participation, and limiting participant feedback may seem beneficial in their own contexts, they do not directly address psychological risks. Financial incentives may not alleviate emotional distress, while open participation could potentially increase risks without appropriate safeguards. Minimizing feedback could lead to feelings of isolation or dissatisfaction, which could contribute to psychological risks rather than mitigate them. Thus, providing counseling support is the most effective means to address and protect against psychological risks in research settings.