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Autonomy

Definition

Autonomy refers to an individual's ability and right to make decisions and act independently without external interference or coercion. In psychology, autonomy often involves respecting individuals' freedom to choose their own thoughts, beliefs, values, and actions.

Analogy

Imagine autonomy as driving your own car. You have control over where you want to go and how you want to get there without someone else dictating your route or destination.

Related terms

Informed Consent: Informed consent is obtaining permission from participants after providing them with all relevant information about a study including its purpose, procedures involved, potential risks and benefits so they can make autonomous decisions about participating.

Confidentiality: Confidentiality means keeping participants' personal information private by ensuring their identity is not disclosed to anyone who is not directly involved in the study.

Respect for Persons: Respecting persons is an ethical principle that emphasizes treating individuals as autonomous agents and protecting those with diminished autonomy, such as children or individuals with cognitive impairments.