What should a researcher do if she wants to study former prisoners on parole?

The correct approach for a researcher studying former prisoners on parole involves understanding the ethical and regulatory framework surrounding research with vulnerable populations. In this case, the response indicating that the researcher should do nothing regarding the Subpart C requirements is based on the understanding that Subpart C of the federal regulations deals specifically with research involving prisoners.

Subpart C stipulates that research protocols must adhere to specific ethical guidelines and protections when the subjects are incarcerated, meaning that these protections are not in place if the individuals are no longer in prison, as is the case with those on parole. Therefore, since the subjects have already been released and are no longer considered prisoners, the Subpart C provisions do not apply.

In contrast, other options suggest actions that may imply ongoing regulatory requirements that are not necessary for research involving individuals no longer incarcerated. While ethical considerations always remain important, the focus here is that these specific regulatory requirements are lifted once individuals are no longer in a correctional facility. This understanding allows researchers to move forward with their studies while still upholding ethical standards that apply to all research involving human subjects.