The principle of beneficence in human-subjects research is best illustrated by:

“Determining that the study has a maximization of benefits and a minimization of risks.”

Why this is beneficence

Beneficence means actively promoting the well-being of participants by:

  • Maximizing potential benefits of the research.
  • Minimizing possible harms or risks to participants.

Ethics guidance and teaching materials consistently link beneficence to this kind of risk–benefit assessment, which is why that option is identified as the correct example in exam-style discussions of this question.

Other options generally align with:

  • Informed consent / respect for persons – “Providing detailed information and obtaining consent.”
  • Justice – “Ensuring selection from all segments of the population.”
  • Respect for persons – “Ensuring persons with diminished autonomy are protected.”

So, beneficence specifically corresponds to designing and approving the study such that benefits are maximized and risks are minimized.