When obtaining informed consent for minors, what should be considered?

• A. Parental consent and child assent when appropriate; explain confidentiality boundaries
• B. Only parental consent is needed; no assent
• C. Assent alone is enough; parents not necessary
• D. Do not discuss confidentiality with minors

Answer: (A)

Informed consent for minors involves balancing parental responsibility with the child’s developing ability to participate in decisions. The best practice is to obtain parental consent and, when appropriate given the minor’s age and understanding, the minor’s assent. This respects the family’s role in guardianship while honoring the youth’s emerging autonomy. It’s essential to explain confidentiality boundaries up front—clarifying what information will be kept private, what may need to be shared with parents or others, and the legal or ethical limits to confidentiality (such as mandatory reporting of abuse or threats of harm). This approach protects the minor’s welfare, supports meaningful participation in the process, and builds trust. Relying solely on parental consent omits the minor’s voice, assent alone cannot replace parental permission, and not discussing confidentiality with the minor undermines trust and safety.