4.8 Discussion Questions
Discussion Questions
- What steps should counselors take to accurately identify an ethical dilemma, and why is this the first critical stage in the ethical decision-making process?
- How does gathering relevant facts and understanding the context of a situation influence the ethical decision-making process? What risks arise from insufficient information?
- Why is consulting ethical codes (e.g., ACA, NAADAC) essential in the decision-making process? How can counselors ensure they interpret these guidelines correctly?
- In the ethical decision-making process, why is it important to identify all stakeholders involved? How does this step affect the final decision?
- How can counselors prioritize competing ethical principles (e.g., autonomy vs. nonmaleficence) when making decisions? What strategies can help them resolve conflicts?
- During the brainstorming stage, how can counselors ensure that all possible courses of action are considered? Why is creativity important in this step?
- How can counselors assess the short-term and long-term consequences of each possible decision? What role does considering unintended outcomes play in this process?
- Why is consultation with supervisors or peers an integral part of ethical decision-making? What should counselors consider when choosing who to consult?
- What are the benefits of documenting the steps taken during the ethical decision-making process? How does this contribute to accountability and transparency?
- After implementing a decision, why is it important to reflect on the outcome and the decision-making process itself? How can this reflection improve future ethical practices?