Research clinic: Kids' research

From whom do I need consent to interview children?

The MRS Code of Conduct defines children as those under 16. Consent of a parent, guardian or a responsible adult who is acting in the place of a parent is required before an interview is conducted. Where the interview takes place on a street or public place, interviews with those aged 14 and 15 may take place without consent of a parent, guardian or responsible adult, although an explanatory note must be given to the child. For sensitive research, where requesting consent would likely inhibit the answers given by the child, consent may be waived only with the prior approval of the MRS Market Research Standards Board.

I want to give vouchers to children as an incentive. How can I ensure that they are not used to buy inappropriate or age restricted items?

MRS guidance is that incentives should be appropriate to the age group. In the case of vouchers, retailers are responsible for ensuring they do not sell products which are illegal for the age of the buyer. Parents should be informed of the nature and value of the voucher. By doing this, the onus is placed on the parent to indicate whether he/she objects to the incentive being given.

I have been approached by a tobacco company to undertake research with children. Is this permissible?

Research carried out on behalf of manufacturers of products which are illegal for the age group involved in the research would not be permitted under the MRS Code of Conduct. The only exception is when research needs to be conducted to ensure products are not manufactured or marketed in such a way that encourages under age use or consumption. In this case, research may only be conducted with children with the explicit and prior approval of the MRS Market Research Standards Board.

Find out more:

MRS Code of Conduct
Conducting research with children and young people - guidelines and FAQs
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