Assignment Ethics In Your Area Of Study Review: A Code Of Et

Assignment ethics In Your Area Of Studyreview A Code Of Ethics Document

Review a code of ethics document related to your area of study or vocation. Consider a specific moral issue in your area of study or vocation and complete an essay according to the following directions.

In 750-1,000 words, write an essay in which you: Describe an ethical issue in your own area of study and provide a moral response. Analyze how at least two moral theories might respond to the issue. Explain how principles contained in a code of ethics for your discipline relate to the issue. Utilize one of the models for making moral decisions discussed in Topic 6 to evaluate the issue. Describe and support your rationale to the issue.

Paper For Above instruction

The integration of ethical principles within professional fields is essential to maintaining integrity and public trust. In my area of study—psychology—ethical dilemmas frequently arise that challenge practitioners to balance client confidentiality, informed consent, and the duty to do no harm. One significant ethical issue is the confidentiality of sensitive client information, especially when clients disclose intentions that could harm themselves or others. This essay discusses this ethical challenge, analyzes responses from two moral theories, examines relevant principles from the American Psychological Association (APA) Code of Ethics, evaluates the issue using a moral decision-making model, and provides a rationale for navigating such dilemmas.

Ethical Issue in Area of Study

The confidentiality of client information is a cornerstone of psychological practice, fostering trust and honesty essential for effective therapy. However, conflicts arise when a client's disclosures include threats of violence, suicidal ideation, or child abuse. Maintaining confidentiality in these situations could result in harm, raising moral questions about the practitioner's obligations. For example, if a client confesses plans to harm a specific individual, the therapist must decide whether to breach confidentiality to prevent harm or to uphold the client's privacy, risking potential danger.

Response from Moral Theories

Utilitarianism, which advocates for actions maximizing overall happiness or well-being, might justify breaching confidentiality if disclosure prevents greater harm. If revealing the information prevents violence or suicide, the utilitarian perspective supports disclosure to protect lives and promote societal well-being. Conversely, Kantian deontology emphasizes duty and respect for individuals' rights. From this viewpoint, therapists have a duty to respect confidentiality as a moral obligation, unless there is a clear and immediate threat. Kantian ethics would argue that breaching confidentiality for less urgent concerns could violate the client's autonomy and dignity.

Furthermore, virtue ethics, focusing on moral character, emphasizes traits like honesty, courage, and prudence. A virtuous practitioner would weigh these virtues—acting courageously to protect potential victims while remaining honest and respectful toward the client. The decision depends on cultivating moral virtues that guide appropriate action in complex situations.

Relation to Code of Ethics

The APA Code of Ethics explicitly addresses confidentiality and its limits. Standard 4.01, "Maintaining Confidentiality," mandates psychologists to protect private information but allows disclosure when there is an imminent risk of harm. Standard 4.05, "Disclosures," further details circumstances where breaching confidentiality is ethically permissible or obligatory. The code emphasizes balancing confidentiality with the duty to prevent harm, aligning with both moral theories that prioritize harm prevention and respect for autonomy.

These principles serve as guiding frameworks, requiring psychologists to exercise professional judgment, document disclosures, and seek supervision when faced with complex dilemmas. The code offers a moral compass rooted in respect, beneficence, and justice, helping practitioners navigate challenges appropriately.

Application of Moral Decision-Making Model

Using the model discussed in Topic 6—the moral dilemma model—we assess the situation systematically. The first step involves recognizing the dilemma: the need to uphold confidentiality versus the obligation to prevent harm. Next, gather relevant information, including client history, the immediacy of threat, and legal requirements. Then, identify possible options: inform the client, breach confidentiality, consult with colleagues, or involve authorities.

Evaluating these options involves considering potential outcomes, ethical principles, and professional guidelines. Breaching confidentiality might prevent harm but could damage the therapeutic relationship. Respecting confidentiality preserves trust but might jeopardize safety. Consulting with supervisors or legal counsel provides additional perspectives, aligning with best practice recommendations.

Deciding to breach confidentiality when there is an imminent threat aligns with both ethical standards and the moral principle of beneficence—acting in the best interest of the client and society. Documenting the decision and informing the client about limits of confidentiality ensures transparency and accountability.

Rationale and Conclusion

In this scenario, applying the moral decision-making model and referencing the APA Code of Ethics supports a decision to breach confidentiality when a client poses an imminent risk of harm. This aligns with utilitarian reasoning, maximizes overall safety, and respects the moral duties outlined by Kantian ethics. Virtue ethics emphasizes moral courage and prudence, guiding practitioners to act ethically despite complex circumstances.

Ultimately, the ethical response involves balancing competing principles—confidentiality, nonmaleficence, and beneficence—and making informed, morally grounded decisions. Adhering to professional codes, practicing moral virtues, and systematically evaluating options ensures that psychologists fulfill their moral and professional responsibilities, safeguarding clients and the broader community.

References

• American Psychological Association. (2017). Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct. https://www.apa.org/ethics/code
• Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2013). Principles of Biomedical Ethics (7th ed.). Oxford University Press.
• Singer, P. (2011). Practical Ethics. Cambridge University Press.
• Kohlberg, L. (1981). Essays on Moral Development. Harper & Row.
• Fisher, C. B. (2017). Decoding the Ethics Code: A Practical Guide for Psychologists. SAGE Publications.
• Laczniak, G. R., & Murphy, P. E. (2019). Moral Decision Making in Business. Routledge.
• Thompson, M. (2019). Virtue Ethics and Moral Character. Routledge.
• Turner, M. A., & Mlawor, A. (2018). Ethical Decision-Making in Psychology: An Applied Approach. Academic Press.
• Gostin, L. O. (2020). Public Health Law and Ethics. University of California Press.
• Robertson, J. A. (2014). Ethical Dilemmas in Counseling Practices. Counseling and Psychotherapy Research, 14(4), 445–454.