According to the Belmont Principle of Beneficence, researchers are required to:

• A. Obtain informed consent from all participants before conducting research
• B. Maximize possible benefits and minimize possible harms to research participants
• C. Ensure that all participants receive equal compensation regardless of risk
• D. Allow participants to withdraw from the study at any time without penalty

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the Belmont Report outlines three core ethical principles for research involving human subjects: Respect for Persons, Beneficence, and Justice.
2. Identify that the Principle of Beneficence specifically focuses on the well-being of research participants, emphasizing the importance of maximizing benefits and minimizing harm.
3. Recognize that obtaining informed consent and allowing withdrawal without penalty relate more directly to the principle of Respect for Persons, which centers on autonomy and voluntary participation.
4. Note that ensuring equal compensation regardless of risk is related to Justice, which concerns fairness in distribution of research benefits and burdens.
5. Conclude that according to the Principle of Beneficence, researchers are required to maximize possible benefits and minimize possible harms to participants.