Under the Common Rule, individuals with impaired decision-making capacity are considered _____ populations.

Individuals with impaired decision-making capacity are considered vulnerable populations under the Common Rule because this designation acknowledges that they may lack the ability to provide informed consent or evaluate risks and benefits. Vulnerability in research ethics refers to specific groups that may be at greater risk of harm or exploitation in research contexts.

This classification is essential for ethical research practices, as it highlights the need for additional protections and considerations to support these individuals in research settings. The potential for coercion, undue influence, or exploitation necessitates careful ethical oversight to ensure their rights and welfare are sufficiently safeguarded.

In contrast, terms like neglected, understudied, and diverse do not encapsulate the ethical implications associated with conducting research involving individuals with impaired decision-making capabilities. Such classifications do not address the inherent risks that may arise during research participation, nor do they emphasize the necessity for enhanced protective measures. Therefore, referring to this group as vulnerable appropriately underscores the importance of careful ethical consideration and protection in research contexts.