This article is part of the network’s archive of useful research information. This article is closed to new comments due to inactivity. We welcome new content which can be done by submitting an article for review or take part in discussions in an open topic or submit a blog post to take your discussions online.
To cite this article: Aisha Y. Malik (2011): Physician-Researchers’ Experiences of the Consent Process in the Sociocultural Context of a Developing Country, AJOB Primary Research, 2:3, 38-46
Abstract:
Background: International guidelines for medical research involving human subjects maintain the primacy of informed consent while recognizing cultural diversity.
Methods: This paper draws on empirical data obtained from interviews with physician-researchers in teaching hospitals of Lahore, Pakistan. The data identify social and cultural factors that affect the consent process for participants in research.
Results: This paper presents variable findings with regards to communication, comprehension and decision-making. While some physicians consider that social factors such as lack of education, a patriarchal family system and skepticism of research can make patients dependent on either the physician-researcher or the family, others believe that patients do make independent decisions.
Conclusions: In light of the findings, the paper ends with a recommendation for communication and decision-making that is sensitive to the local socio-cultural environment while at the same time meeting the ethical imperative of respect for persons.
Key words: decision-making, consent process, empirical ethics, developing world [bio]ethics.
To access the full article, go to: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/21507716.2011.616183