When is verbal consent most appropriate in research involvement?

Verbal consent is most appropriate when written consent is not feasible. This situation often arises in research settings where obtaining a written signature may pose barriers or be challenging due to logistical issues or the nature of the interaction. For example, in studies conducted in remote areas or with participants who may have difficulties with reading or writing, verbal consent can provide an ethical pathway to ensure participants are still informed about their involvement and have voluntarily agreed to participate.

While minimal risk research, interactions with vulnerable populations, and studies involving anonymity may influence the method of consent obtained, these scenarios do not inherently require verbal consent over written consent. Rather, they may still allow for written consent if it is practical. Therefore, the key reason verbal consent is particularly significant in this context is tied directly to its feasibility, allowing researchers to maintain ethical standards when formal written consent is not practical or possible.