Read Chapter 2 And Respond To The Questions Below Why Are Th
Read Chapter 2 And Respond To The Questions Below Why Are The Cod
Read Chapter 2 and respond to the questions below: Why are the codes of ethics needed? Who benefits? Advocacy has been included in the 2005 code of ethics? Is this needed? Why? Give several examples of times when career counselors in various settings might need to become advocates. How could a career counselor do harm to his/her clients? What aspects of career counseling practice might if not properly done, result in a liability suit?
Paper For Above instruction
Ethical principles form the foundation of professional practice in career counseling and development. The necessity of codes of ethics lies in establishing consistent standards that safeguard clients, uphold the integrity of the profession, and guide practitioners in their daily activities. These codes benefit clients by ensuring they receive competent, respectful, and culturally sensitive services, and they benefit practitioners by providing a framework for ethical decision-making and liability protection. The inclusion of advocacy within the 2005 ACA Code of Ethics reflects the profession's recognition of its social responsibility to promote clients' interests beyond individual counseling sessions, such as influencing policies that improve employment opportunities and working conditions.
Advocacy becomes crucial in various settings, such as educational institutions, community organizations, or career centers, where career counselors can influence policy changes, access barriers, or equitable resource distribution. For example, counselors may advocate for marginalized groups facing discrimination in hiring practices or for students needing additional support services for career development. Furthermore, counselors working with diverse populations must advocate to ensure that assessment tools and services are culturally appropriate and accessible. In workforce development initiatives, counselors might advocate for inclusive job programs that provide opportunities for underrepresented groups.
However, it is also essential for counselors to recognize their boundaries to avoid causing harm. A counselor could unintentionally harm a client by advising them based on personal beliefs rather than evidence-based practices or by breaching confidentiality, which could lead to mistrust and emotional harm. Providing false or misleading information about career prospects, or not adequately considering the client's cultural background and personal values, can negatively impact the client's career decision-making process and self-esteem.
Incorrect practice in career counseling can also lead to legal liabilities. For instance, failing to obtain informed consent before assessment or intervention, neglecting to supervise or document care properly, or using unvalidated assessment tools can result in malpractice claims. Additionally, practicing beyond one's competence—such as providing career advice without adequate training—may expose practitioners to charges of negligence. Maintaining adherence to ethical standards and staying updated on best practices and legal obligations are essential to prevent liability issues.
In conclusion, ethical codes are instrumental in guiding career practitioners to serve their clients effectively while protecting both parties from harm. Advocacy plays a vital role in promoting social justice and equal opportunities in the career development arena. Nonetheless, practitioners must remain vigilant to avoid actions that could inadvertently cause harm or result in legal repercussions. As the field evolves with technological advances and increased cultural diversity, continuous ethical education and adherence to professional standards will remain critical in fostering ethical, competent, and responsible career development practice.
References
- American Counseling Association. (2005). ACA code of ethics. American Counseling Association.
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- Koocher, G. P., & Keith-Spiegel, P. (1998). Ethical issues in psychology and counseling. Allyn & Bacon.
- National Board for Certified Counselors. (2012). NBCC code of ethics. National Board for Certified Counselors.
- National Career Development Association. (2007). NCDA CODE OF ETHICS. National Career Development Association.
- National Association of Social Workers. (2008). NASW code of ethics. National Association of Social Workers.
- American Psychological Association. (2010). Ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct. American Psychological Association.
- Prediger, S. (1993). Multicultural assessment standards. Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development, 21(4), 210-222.
- American School Counselor Association. (2010). ASCA ethical standards for school counselors. American School Counselor Association.
- Novotney, A. (2011). Teletherapy: Expanding reach and ethical considerations. Psychology Today.