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Is there a definition of child, as opposed to a young person and do different rules apply to the types of questions we can ask them?
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The age definition for children varies from country to country but if it is not specified in a national Code and/or in national legislation, a "child" is defined as under the age of 14, and a "young person" as aged 14-17.
To interview a child aged under 14, you must obtain permission from a responsible adult.
Although a child of 7 and a child of 13 often cannot be asked the same questions or be asked to consider identical topics, this is usually more a matter of common sense and good research practice rather than one of ethics. The researcher must take into account the degree of maturity of the child or young person involved when considering which subjects may or not be dealt with in an interview.
In some situations, the sensitive nature of the research can mean that exceptional care is called for, regardless of the age-group. A key criterion must always be that when the parent or other person responsible hears about the content or circumstances of the interview, no reasonable person would expect him or her to be upset or disturbed.