Which statement about assent for minors is correct?

• A. Assent from the minor is optional.
• B. Parental consent alone is sufficient.
• C. The minor's assent should be collected from the minor, in accordance with local regulatory requirements.
• D. Assent must be collected only if the parent agrees.

Answer: (C)

Assent is the minor’s affirmative, voluntary agreement to participate in research, reflecting their growing ability to understand. The correct approach is to obtain the minor’s assent directly from the minor, and to do so in a manner appropriate to their age and level of understanding, following local regulatory requirements. This respects the child’s developing autonomy and helps ensure participation is truly voluntary, not just because a parent consented. Parental consent remains necessary, but it does not replace the minor’s own assent. Since the specifics of how assent is obtained can vary by jurisdiction, you follow the local rules about who can give assent, how information is presented, and how assent is documented. If a minor cannot assent due to age or cognitive status, regulations may allow a waiver or other arrangements, but when assent is feasible, it should be sought.