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Guidelines for Selecting Consent

The following table is designed to help you select the type of consent required. Please note each type of consent form is only an example. Please modify to be appropriate for your study.

Informed Consent | 8 Elements of Consent | Statement of Confidentiality

Type of Project Age of target participant Type of Consent
Survey with no identifying information (e.g., anonymous) 18 years of age or older Cover letter consent: contains all elements of consent, but does not require signature
Study in which participants are identified but risk is minimal or less than minimal 18 years of age or older

Adult consent form

Study in which participants are identified but risk is minimal or less than minimal 0 to 3 years old

Parent Consent only

3 – 7 years old Verbal Assent Script + Parental Consent
8 - 17 years old Written Child Assent + Parental Consent
Study in which there is more than minimal risk. Risks must be identified. 18 years of age or older

Adult Risk Consent Form

Study in which participants are identified but risk is more than minimal. 0 to 3 years old

Parent Risk Consent only

3 – 7 years old Verbal Risk Assent Script + Parental Risk Consent
8 - 17 years old Written Child Risk Assent + Parental Risk Consent

Each consent form must:

  • contain the 8 elements of consent unless a specific element does not apply to your study (Please review the 8 elements of consent to ensure that you have fully informed your participants.)
  • include a statement about participants rights as a human subject, and
  • be on University of New Orleans letterhead.
  • Please feel free to contact the staff if you have any questions
    about the IRB application process.