Ethical Model Of Decision Making: Examine Relevant Personal

Ethic Model Of Decision Makinge Examine Relevantpersonal Societal

Analyze a specific ethical scenario using the ETHIC model of decision-making by examining relevant personal, societal, agency, client, and professional values. Consider applicable standards from the NASW Code of Ethics, relevant laws, and case decisions. Hypothesize about potential consequences of different choices, identifying who benefits and who may be harmed, with a focus on social work's commitment to vulnerable populations. Consult with supervisors and colleagues to determine the most ethical course of action.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

In professional social work practice, ethical decision-making is a critical process that ensures actions taken in complex situations uphold the core values of the profession while respecting the rights and dignity of clients. The ETHIC model provides a structured framework that guides social workers through this process by examining pertinent values and standards, analyzing potential outcomes, and consulting with colleagues. This paper demonstrates the application of the ETHIC model to a real-world scenario involving confidentiality and mandated reporting, emphasizing ethical principles and professional responsibilities.

Scenario Chosen: A 15-year-old female client with an eating disorder reveals during a session that she is pregnant but requests that this information be kept confidential and not shared with her parents. Later, her mother inquires about the session outcome. The task is to decide how to navigate this situation ethically using the ETHIC model.

Step 1: Examine Relevant Personal, Societal, Agency, Client, and Professional Values

In this scenario, personal values such as respect for client autonomy and confidentiality are central. Societally, protecting the health and well-being of the pregnant adolescent and her potential child are significant concerns. Agency values might emphasize the importance of child protection and mandated reporting if necessary. From a professional perspective, the NASW Code of Ethics underscores the importance of respecting clients' privacy (standard 1.07 Confidentiality) but also mandates protection of the vulnerable (standard 1.03 Informed Consent and 1.06 Conflict of Interest). The client’s right to confidentiality must be balanced with legal and ethical obligations to safeguard her health and well-being.

Step 2: Think about what ethical standard from the NASW Code applies, as well as relevant laws and case decisions

The NASW Code of Ethics obligates social workers to respect client confidentiality unless there is a risk of serious harm or legal obligation to disclose. Under laws governing minors, especially those related to pregnancy and health, social workers may be required to report instances that involve abuse or health risks—such as potential neglect or harm to the fetus or mother. Relevant case law reinforces the need to balance confidentiality with mandated reporting when there is a risk of serious harm.

Step 3: Hypothesize about possible consequences of different decisions

If the social worker maintains strict confidentiality, the client might feel safe and continue seeking support, possibly leading to better health outcomes and a safe pregnancy. Conversely, if the worker discloses the pregnancy to her parents without the client’s consent, it might breach her trust, discourage future honesty, or cause emotional harm, but it might also invoke necessary intervention to safeguard her health or the fetus if risk is imminent. Choosing to report without the client’s consent could lead to legal ramifications and damage the client-worker relationship.

Step 4: Identify who will benefit and who will be harmed

The client benefits from confidentiality and supportive, non-judgmental counseling; harm could occur if her trust is broken, leading to emotional distress or withdrawal from services. The parents could benefit from knowledge that enables them to offer support but may also experience distress or feeling of betrayal. The unborn child could benefit from intervention if there is neglect, but unnecessary disclosure could harm the adolescent’s mental health and trust. The social worker’s reputation and standing within the agency could also influence the decision and its consequences.

Step 5: Consult with supervisor and colleagues about the most ethical choice

Given the complexity, the social worker should discuss the scenario with supervisors and colleagues, considering legal obligations and ethical standards. These consultations can assist in weighing the importance of confidentiality against mandated reporting requirements and exploring options such as encouraging the client to disclose the pregnancy herself or seeking legal guidance. Collaboration ensures the decision respects the client’s dignity while adhering to legal and ethical mandates.

Conclusion

The application of the ETHIC model guides social workers to navigate complex ethical dilemmas carefully and thoughtfully. In the presented scenario, respecting the adolescent’s confidentiality aligned with her right to privacy under NASW standards, unless there is a legal or safety concern mandating disclosure. Through consultation and critical analysis, a social worker can align their actions with ethical principles, legal standards, and a commitment to vulnerable populations, thus promoting trust, safety, and well-being.

References

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