Why are ethical concerns heightened when children take part in research? How is informed consent used with children?

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: The quest for scientific knowledge can sometimes exploit people. When children take part in research, the ethical concerns are especially complex. Children are more vulnerable than adults to physical and psychological harm. In addition, immaturity makes it difficult or impossible for children to evaluate for themselves what participation in research will mean. Thus, special ethical guidelines for research on children have been developed.
All research participants, including children, have the right to have explained to them, in language appropriate to their level of understanding, all aspects of the research that may affect their willingness to participate. When children are participants, informed consent of parents as well as others who act on the child's behalf (such as school officials) should be obtained, preferably in writing. As soon as children are old enough to appreciate the purpose of the research, and certainly by 7 years of age, their own informed assent, or agreement, should be obtained in addition to parental consent. Children, and the adults responsible for them, have the right to discontinue participation in the research at any time.