Humphreys' actions in the Tearoom Trade study exemplify a violation of which principle?

Humphreys' actions in the Tearoom Trade study exemplify a violation of the principle of respect for persons. This principle emphasizes the need to honor the autonomy and dignity of individuals, ensuring that they have the right to make informed decisions regarding their participation in research. In the Tearoom Trade study, Humphreys observed individuals engaging in sexual activities in public restrooms without their consent and did not fully inform them of his research intentions. This lack of informed consent directly undermined the participants' autonomy and rights, as they were unaware that their actions were being observed for research purposes.

The other principles, such as justice and beneficence, pertain to fair treatment and minimizing harm, respectively, but the core violation in this scenario centered on the lack of respect for the individual's autonomy and privacy, making respect for persons the most relevant principle in this context.