2. There are a number of different models
for ethical decision making; most tend
to focus on the application of principals
to ethical dilemmas. After reviewing a
few of these models, my colleagues and
I have identified a series of procedural
steps to help you think through ethical
problems (see Corey, Corey, &
Callanan, 2011):
3. 1. Identify the problem or dilemma. Gather
information that will shed light on the nature
of the problem. This will help you decide
weather the problem is mainly
ethical, legal, professional, clinical, or moral.
2. Identify the potential issues. Evaluate the
rights, responsibilities, and welfare of all
those who are involved in the situation.
4. 3.Look at the relevant ethics codes for
general guidance on the matter. Consider
weather your own values and ethics are
consistent with or in conflict with the
relevant guidelines.
4.Consider the applicable laws and
regulations, and determine how they may
have a bearing on an ethical dilemma.
5. 5.Seek consultation from more then one
source to obtain various perspectives on the
dilemma, and document in the client’s
record what suggestions you received from
this consultation.
6.Brainstorm various possible courses of
action. Continue discussing options with
other professionals. Include the client in this
process of considering options from action.
Again, document the nature of the
discussion with your client.
6. 7.Enumerate the consequences of various
decisions, and reflect on the implications
of each course of action for your client.
8.Decide on what appears to be the best
possible course of action. Once the
course of action has been
implemented, follow up to evaluate the
outcomes and to determine whether
further action is necessary. Document
the reasons for the actions you took as
well as your evaluation measures.
7. Thank you for listening to my
presentation on Making Ethical
Decisions.
Enjoy the rest of your
evening.
8. References
Corey, G. (2013). Theory and practice of
counseling and psychotherapy. (9th ed. ed.).
Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole CENGAGAE
Learning.
