What is the difference between consent and assent in minors' medical decisions?

• A. They are interchangeable terms
• B. Consent is permission given by a parent/guardian; assent is the minor's affirmative agreement when capable
• C. Assent is required only for adults
• D. The minor's agreement; assent is parent's permission

Answer: (B)

The concept being tested is how consent and assent function differently in pediatric care. Consent is the legal permission given by a parent or guardian to authorize medical treatment for a minor. Assent is the minor’s affirmative agreement to a proposed treatment, sought when the child is capable of understanding and participating in the discussion. In practice, clinicians obtain parental consent to treat and, when appropriate, seek the child’s assent to respect the child’s developing autonomy. If a child cannot assent due to age or maturity, care can still proceed with the parent’s consent, though the clinician should involve the child as much as possible. Assent is not a substitute for parental permission, and it is not something adults need.