Dr. Laura Simmons, a licensed clinical psychologist, has been treating Mr. Alex Turner, a 35-
year-old software engineer, for symptoms of severe depression and anxiety over the past six
months. Their sessions have been characterized by trust and open communication, with Alex
often sharing his deepest fears and concerns.
During a particularly intense session, Alex reveals to Dr. Simmons that he has been having
recurring thoughts of harming a colleague due to a longstanding professional rivalry and recent
personal conflicts. He describes detailed plans and expresses a genuine intent to act on these
thoughts.
Dr. Simmons is immediately faced with an ethical dilemma. She values the principle of
confidentiality, which is foundational to the therapeutic relationship. Alex has trusted her with his
innermost thoughts, and she knows that breaking this trust could potentially harm their
therapeutic alliance. However, she is also bound by the principles of beneficence
and non-
maleficence. Beneficence compels her to act in the best interest of her patient and those around
him, while non-maleficence emphasizes the importance of "doing no harm
- Summarize the facts in the selected case study and use the three components of an ethical decision-making model to analyze an ethical problem or issue and the factors that contributed to it.
o Identify which case study you selected and briefly summarize the facts surrounding it. Identify the problem or issue that presents an ethical dilemma or challenge and describe that dilemma or challenge.
o Identify who is involved or affected by the ethical problem or issue.
o Access the Ethical Decision-Making Model media piece and use the three components of the ethical decision-making model (moral awareness, moral judgment, and ethical behavior) to analyze the ethical issues.
Apply the three components outlined in the Ethical Decision-Making Model media.
Full Answer Section
In this case, breaching confidentiality to prevent potential harm to the colleague raises ethical concerns, while maintaining confidentiality could potentially lead to harm.
Involved Parties
- Dr. Laura Simmons: The clinical psychologist, responsible for the patient's well-being and ethical obligations.
- Mr. Alex Turner: The patient, experiencing severe mental health issues and harboring harmful intentions.
- The Colleague: The potential victim of Alex's planned actions.
- Society at large: The broader community, which could be affected by potential violence.
Ethical Decision-Making Model Analysis
- Moral Awareness:
- Dr. Simmons must recognize the ethical implications of Alex's revelations. She needs to understand the potential harm to the colleague and the broader societal impact.
- She must also acknowledge the ethical principles of confidentiality, beneficence, and non-maleficence that are in conflict.
- Moral Judgment:
- Dr. Simmons must weigh the potential consequences of different courses of action.
- She needs to consider the ethical guidelines and legal requirements relevant to her profession.
- She must also assess the likelihood of Alex carrying out his plan and the severity of the potential harm.
- Ethical Behavior:
- Dr. Simmons must take appropriate action to protect the colleague and prevent harm. This may involve:
- Direct Intervention: Directly contacting the colleague to warn them about the potential threat.
- Involving Law Enforcement: Reporting Alex's threats to the authorities, potentially leading to involuntary hospitalization.
- Seeking Consultation: Consulting with colleagues or supervisors for guidance and support.
- She must also continue to provide therapeutic support to Alex, balancing his needs with the safety of others.
The decision-making process should be guided by ethical principles and professional standards. Dr. Simmons must carefully consider the potential consequences of each action and choose a course that prioritizes the safety of others while respecting Alex's rights and dignity.
Sample Answer
The case study involves a clinical psychologist, Dr. Laura Simmons, who is treating a patient, Mr. Alex Turner, for severe depression and anxiety. Alex has confided in Dr. Simmons about having recurring thoughts of harming a colleague, detailing a plan to act on these thoughts. This presents a significant ethical dilemma for Dr. Simmons.
Ethical Dilemma
The core ethical dilemma lies in the conflict between two fundamental principles of clinical psychology:
- Confidentiality: Maintaining the privacy of patient information is essential for building trust and facilitating open communication.
- Beneficence and Non-maleficence: The duty to act in the best interest of the patient and others, while also avoiding harm.