General Issues for Discussion in Research on Vulnerable Populations

• Whom are the people or groups selected for research and why?
• Are differences in selection related to risks?
• What characteristics or stereotypes influence choice of group/individuals for research/experimentation?
• What is the basis and/or context of vulnerability for a population?
• Will those selected benefit or will unrelated others?
• What are the special concerns about informed consent in individuals who are poor, powerless, and/or stigmatized in a society?
• Are groups excluded from research because of risks perceived by researchers that are specific to them? Is this bias?
• Who can be trusted to advise the vulnerable on participation for research?
• How should concerns of people who fear being research subjects be addressed?