Which of the following statements best reflects the American Psychological Association's position on the use of deception in psychological research?

• A. Deception is never permitted in psychological research under any circumstances
• B. Deception is permitted only if it is essential to the research and participants are debriefed afterward
• C. Deception is allowed only in studies involving non-human subjects
• D. Deception can be used freely as long as participants sign a consent form

Answer: (B)