In intimate relationships research, which ethical principle best protects participant autonomy and safety?

• A. Replacing informed consent with implied consent only.
• B. Informed consent, confidentiality, minimizing harm, and handling mandatory reporting and dual relationships.
• C. Publishing all data without de-identification.
• D. Encouraging dual relationships to gain trust.

Answer: (B)

Protecting autonomy and safety in intimate relationships research relies on honoring participants’ right to choose freely, protecting what they share, and managing research duties that could affect well-being. Informed consent is the foundation because it ensures people understand what the study involves, its risks and benefits, and their right to withdraw, which supports voluntary and autonomous participation. Confidentiality is essential because it reassures participants that sensitive information about intimate life won't be disclosed in ways that could harm them, stigma, or relationships. Minimizing harm is about designing the study to reduce physical, emotional, or social risks and providing appropriate support if distress arises. Handling mandatory reporting and avoiding dual relationships address safety and power dynamics: researchers must know when they’re legally obligated to report safety concerns and keep boundaries clear to prevent coercion or conflicts of interest that could bias the data or endanger the participant.

Seeing the alternatives helps clarify why this combination fits best. Replacing informed consent with implied consent erodes autonomy because participants may not truly understand or agree to participate. Publishing all data without de-identification violates confidentiality and risks exposing participants’ private information. Encouraging dual relationships can create coercive dynamics and undermine trust, compromising both autonomy and safety.