How is "assent" different from "consent" in research involving minors?

In research involving minors, "assent" specifically refers to the agreement obtained from the minor participant themselves, acknowledging their willingness to participate in the research, while "consent" is the formal agreement obtained from a parent or legal guardian. This distinction is crucial in ethical research practices, as it recognizes the developing autonomy of minors and their ability to understand and agree to participation in research to a certain extent, depending on their age and maturity level.

Assent is typically obtained from minors who are old enough to understand the nature of the research, its potential risks and benefits, and the implications of participation, while the consent is legally required from the parent or guardian because minors cannot provide full legal consent themselves. This practice upholds the ethical responsibility of researchers to engage with both the minors and their guardians in the informed consent process, ensuring that both parties are informed and in agreement regarding participation.