Ethical inclusion of children in sensitive research: A four-dimensional model

Abstract

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child ‘UNCRC’ provides that children should participate in research about matters that concern them. However, this is not always realised, particularly in the context of risky, sensitive and morally complex experiences. Failure to include children causes lacunae in our understanding of the factors that influence their lives and well-being. In this article, we propose to conceptualise approaches to including children in research along four dimensions: Exclusion; Exploitation; Extension; and Empowerment. Using research on children’s experiences with online sexual content as a case, we discuss ethical dilemmas related to including children in research. Finally, we present 10 recommendations for future research to respect children’ agency and empower them to participate in research in an ethically responsible manner.