Debriefing and when does it occur?

• A. Debriefing is conducted before participation.
• B. Debriefing is optional for all studies.
• C. Debriefing provides participants with full information about the study after participation, including purpose, methods, and any deception, and addresses any concerns.
• D. Debriefing replaces informed consent.

Answer: (C)

Debriefing happens after participation. Its purpose is to give participants a full explanation of the study—its true aims, what was done, and why—especially if any deception was used, and to address any questions or concerns to ensure they leave without distress. This step reinforces understanding and trust, and it may also offer support or the option to withdraw data if desired. It’s distinct from informed consent, which occurs before taking part, and it isn’t something that’s optional for all studies. So the description that debriefing provides full information after participation, including purpose, methods, and any deception, and addresses concerns, best captures what debriefing is and when it occurs.