What type of language should not be included in a consent document regarding legal rights?

The inclusion of exculpatory language in a consent document is problematic because it refers to any wording that seeks to absolve a party, typically the researchers or sponsors, from liability or responsibility for any harm that may come to the participant as a result of the study. Consent documents should be designed to inform participants clearly about the risks and their rights, not to limit their rights or undermine their ability to seek recourse in the event of injury or issues arising from the study.

In ethical research practice, consent forms must uphold participants’ rights and ensure that they understand any potential risks without diminishing their legal standing. Therefore, exculpatory language is inappropriate in this context, as it contradicts the principle that participants should be able to make informed decisions based on a full understanding of their rights and the consequences of their participation.