What ethical issue arises when participants are not informed about the true aims of a study?

The ethical issue that arises when participants are not informed about the true aims of a study is primarily related to deception. In research, participants have the right to be fully informed about the nature of the study, including its purpose, so that they can make an informed choice about their participation. When researchers withhold information or provide false information regarding the purpose of the research, it constitutes deception, potentially undermining the participants' autonomy and ability to give truly informed consent.

While informed consent is a broader concept that involves ensuring participants understand the nature of the research before agreeing to participate, the specific issue of not disclosing the true aims reflects a violation of ethical standards for honesty and transparency. Confidentiality pertains to the protection of participants' private information, and withdrawal rights relate to a participant's ability to leave the study at any time, but neither directly captures the ethical concerns associated with not revealing the objectives of the study itself.