Case Study Robyn Dattilo's 496 Applied Project

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Psychology careers require specialized training and a strong foundation in ethics, critical thinking, and effective communication, as emphasized in educational programs like those at Ashford University. The core outcomes for psychology students include understanding behaviors and mental processes, evaluating personality development and research methods, and demonstrating professionalism through ethical conduct. This context sets the stage for exploring ethical dilemmas faced by psychologists, especially when personal and professional lives intersect.

This paper examines a hypothetical yet realistic case scenario illustrating the conflict between a psychologist’s duty to maintain client confidentiality and their personal relationships. The case involves a woman seeking therapy for depression, attributing her unhappiness to her marriage. During sessions, she confesses her husband's involvement in tax fraud at his company and expresses intent to report him to authorities. The psychologist faces an ethical dilemma: whether to breach confidentiality to disclose this information or to protect their personal relationship and professional integrity.

The psychologist’s personal connection to the husband complicates the decision-making process. On one hand, revealing the information could lead to the loss of a friendship and personal pain. On the other, withholding the information maintains confidentiality but conflicts with the therapist's ethical obligation to prevent harm and promote justice. These competing priorities necessitate the application of critical thinking, rational decision-making, and ethical principles rooted in professional codes of conduct such as those established by the American Psychological Association (APA).

Analysis of the Ethical Dilemma: Critical Thinking, Rationality, and Ethical Principles

Critical thinking is essential for systematically analyzing the situation, weighing possible outcomes, and considering the implications of each action. It involves evaluating evidence objectively and avoiding influence from biases or emotional reactions. In this case, the psychologist must assess the potential consequences of disclosure versus non-disclosure, including legal, moral, and relational impacts. Critical analysis reveals that breaching confidentiality could harm the client-therapist trust, violate ethical standards, and damage professional reputation, while nondisclosure might jeopardize legal accountability and personal integrity.

Rational-based decision-making further guides the psychologist by emphasizing logical reasoning and ethical consistency. Decisions should be made based on evidence, obligations, and principles rather than impulsive emotions or personal preferences. The psychologist's rationale must align with the core ethical standards outlined by the APA, particularly concerning confidentiality, beneficence, and non-maleficence. The decision to uphold confidentiality reinforces the therapist's commitment to respecting client rights, while also considering exceptional circumstances where disclosure might be justified, such as imminent harm — which in this case, does not explicitly apply.

The APA’s Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct (2013) specify that confidentiality should be maintained unless there are clear exceptions, such as preventing harm or complying with legal requirements. As the wife has not threatened harm nor requested disclosure, the ethical obligation remains to keep her information private. The therapist must balance these principles with their professional responsibilities, ensuring actions are justified within the ethical framework.

Application of Ethical Standards and Professional Conduct

The primary consideration relates to the ethical principle of respect for confidentiality, which is fundamental in therapeutic relationships. The APA's Standard 4 stipulates that psychologists should protect client information unless specific conditions for disclosure are met. These include consent, legal obligation, or in situations where non-disclosure could result in significant harm. Since none of these criteria are met in this case, the professional standard directs the therapist to maintain confidentiality.

Furthermore, the therapist must consider their duty to do no harm (non-maleficence) and to promote the well-being of the client while respecting the rights of others. Revealing the husband's misconduct without consent could violate the client's trust and the ethical obligation to act in her best interest. Conversely, nondisclosure might pose risks if the husband's criminal activity leads to significant legal or social consequences, yet ethical guidelines restrict disclosure unless a direct threat or harm is evident.

The dilemma underscores the importance of ethical decision-making models that incorporate principles, contextual factors, and professional standards. By adhering to these frameworks, the psychologist can make a decision aligned with ethical codes, legal standards, and personal integrity. In this scenario, maintaining confidentiality is the most ethically justified course of action, consistent with the principles established by the APA and widely accepted in psychological practice.

Conclusion

In sum, ethical dilemmas in psychology often involve complex considerations where professional obligations may conflict with personal relationships or beliefs. Critical thinking, rational decision-making, and adherence to ethical standards are essential tools for resolving such dilemmas responsibly. This case exemplifies the importance of upholding confidentiality unless clear, ethically justifiable exceptions exist. Psychologists must navigate these situations thoughtfully, prioritizing client welfare, legal compliance, and professional integrity. Ultimately, respecting client confidentiality in this scenario aligns with the ethical principles that underpin the practice of psychology, fostering trust and ensuring the integrity of the therapeutic relationship.

References

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