Article

PURPOSE: To illustrate the ethical challenges that arose from investigating a
novel treatment procedure, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), in a
research participant with aphasia. METHOD: We review the current evidence
supporting the use of tDCS in aphasia research, highlighting methodological gaps
in our knowledge of tDCS. Then, we examine the case of Mr. C, a person with
chronic aphasia who participated in a research protocol investigating the impact
of tDCS on aphasia treatment. We describe the procedures that he underwent and
the resulting behavioral and neurophysiological outcomes. Finally, we share the
steps that were taken to balance beneficence and nonmaleficence and to ensure Mr.
C's autonomy. RESULTS: The objective data show that while Mr. C may not have
benefitted from participating in the research, neither did he experience any
harm. CONCLUSION: Researchers must consider not only the scientific integrity of
their studies, but also potential ethical issues and consequences to the research
participants.

Langue : ANGLAIS