Ethical Research with Children and Adolescents in Social Sciences: Key Principles and Legal Proposals to Guarantee their Rights to Participation, Consent, and Personal Data Protection

Abstract

The participation of children and adolescents in academic research within the field of social sciences has not been specifically addressed by the Spanish legislator, despite the fact that the absence of adequate methodological and ethical rigor in such research may result in the violation of various rights. This article approaches the issue from a legal perspective, examining the fundamental elements to be considered with regard to the informed consents that must be obtained in this context. It also highlights the deficiencies in the Spanish legal framework and proposes legal amendments aimed at establishing clear and consistent criteria that provide legal certainty and ensure the necessary safeguards to protect children's rights in the conduct of such research.