The following populations may sometimes be considered vulnerable:
- Individuals who are cognitively impaired, including those who may not be capable of giving informed consent.
- Individuals who are homeless or living in unstable housing situations.
- Prisoners, parolees, and probationers.
- Children in foster care or unstable home environments.
- Individuals with mental health issues, particularly those with active psychoses, major depression, suicide ideation, self-harming behaviors, and addiction.
- Individuals with chronic or acute illness or conditions; the medically underserved or underinsured.
- Caregivers and others who may be especially subject to secondary PTSD or burnout.
- Individuals experiencing trauma, violence, abuse, or bullying.
- Individuals who may be at risk for coercion such as students and employees.
- Elderly individuals, particularly those in assisted living or nursing homes or with intersecting risk factors.
- Individuals who are socioeconomically or educationally disadvantaged.
- Individuals from communities of color or from indigenous or immigrant communities, particularly when studies focus on experiences of discrimination.
- Individuals who have engaged in criminal activities, including use of illegal substances, prostitution or sexual trafficking, and crime.
- Individuals who may be at risk for coercion such as students and employees.
Doc. reference: phd_t1_u07s2_h02_vulnpops.html