Analysis of the Ethical Awareness Inventory Michelle Sargent PSY 490 05/28/2012 John Papazafiropoulos Abstract Ethics are often considered a very personal concept; however in the field of psychology it is so much more. The EAI begins with a brief description of what ethical awareness is and how it affects the decisions one makes. The process is based on a simple response format that is designed to elicit responses that define an individuals’ “preferred” or most likely ethical approach. The CORE of this inventory is based on character, obligation, results and equity. The CORE of the EAI is good for foundational purposes and should be used as a guideline in the career and educational path choices in the field of psychology.
These codes share similarities in that the both are written to protect the client and set specific guidelines for effective professional counseling. It should be noted that counselors have the responsibility to understand the codes of ethics and observed them to the fullest. The code is only as effective as the professionals that utilize its principles. Herilhy and Corey (2006a) suggest that codes of ethics fulfill three objectives: educate professional about sound ethical conduct, provide mechanism for professional accountability, and codes of ethics serve as a catalysts for improving practice. (et.al).
Making adjustments to the client’s needs should also configure in with the guidelines, rules and the law. The American Psychological Association's (APA) code of ethics indicates principles for maintaining the well-being of an individual. It also respects the individual’s dignity as well as their rights. A psychologist may face an ethical dilemma that will make them feel conflicted in certain cases. For example, a patient who admits an act of violence inflicted on someone or committed a violent crime, which involves an issue of actual or potential risks to someone.
They were designed to help guide the counseling profession and to serve as what Ponton and Duba (2009) called the “framework for ethical thinking” (p. 119). The ACA and AMHCA have codes that are similar in nature. However, there are some specific differences between the two. The ACA serves as the primary organization for the entire counseling field. The organization is considered to hold the standard ethical code for professional counselors of all areas.
In such challenging situations, one should refer to the profession’s official code of ethics, the Ethical Standards of Human Service Professionals, approved in 1995 by the National Organization for Human Service Education (Woodside & McClam, 2011). The Ethical Standards of Human Service Professionals provides an in-depth outline of the professional’s ethical responsibility to the client, to the community, to colleagues, to oneself, and to the profession as a whole. It is the understanding and adherence to this ethical code of conduct, in conjunction with the professional’s innate moral value system that gives the human service professional the power to focus their commitment on the development and enrichment of the client’s knowledge, self-sufficiency, and confidence for a fulfilling life. According to the Ethical Standards for Human Service Professionals, the helping professional’s primary, ethical responsibility is to enhance the well-being of the client, through recognition of the individual’s strengths (Woodside & McClam, 2011). The professional focuses on helping the client realize their full potential and how to utilize their own strengths in order to achieve self-sufficiency, independence, and happiness.
An Examination of Two Codes of Ethics Ginny Y. Taylor Liberty University Dr. J. Trevor Belcher COUN 501-C17 Abstract The American Counseling Association and the American Association of Christian Counselors are two highly respected organizations with compelling information regarding each of their code of ethics. It is helpful to discuss the differences and similarities between these two organization’s codes of ethics. What do these two organizations have in common in regard to their code of ethics? What do these two organizations value differently? Section One explores the general similarities and differences for each of these two organizations: the American Counseling Association and the American Association of Christian Counselors
Ethics and Values in Social Work Practice. With this essay I will evidence my understanding of ethics and values within social work. I will illustrate my awareness of ethical dilemmas and how they may arise during my practice setting. I will also explain how personal values can hinder work with service users and why it is essential to be aware of my own moral values so as not to impose them on others. I will draw from the experience I have gained during my work placement, to demonstrate my awareness of the difficulties therein.
ACA Code of Ethics Misty D Whitehead Texas A&M University-Commerce Introduction The ACA Code of Ethics are the rules and regulations that help promote respect for whomever maybe receiving counseling no matter of any diversity he or she may have. The Ethics are set up in Sections A-H and then into one more section labeled Section I, which hold titles such as, Resolving Ethical Issues, Glossary Terms, and Index. Summary Each of the sections in the code of ethics have a tile explaining what the section is about. Also at the beginning of each section there is an introduction that explains in small detail why this is one of the regulations and rules in counselling. Each of the sections are titles as followed: Section
“The primary role of the counsellor is not that of merely using certain techniques, even with warmth and sympathy. Counselling is essentially an ethical task: it is to serve the client’s best interests” (Munro et al, 1989:4). As stated in the abovementioned quote, the principal role of counselling is to serve the client’s best interests. In order to achieve this in therapy, however, various approaches to counselling need to be considered, chosen, and carefully implemented to aid the client in the most beneficial way possible. As each approach differs, so do the views pertaining to the relationship between the counsellor and client.
In reviewing the website ACA website, www.counseling.org, I was able to read what their mission and motivations are. The mission of the American Counseling Association is to enhance the quality of life in society by promoting the development of professional counselors, advancing the counseling profession, and using the profession and practice of counseling to promote respect for human dignity and diversity. As a professional mental health counselor it lists The ACA Code of Ethics and the purpose of these codes, and what each section involves. The ACA Code of Ethics is extremely important to safeguard not only the clients we serve but ourselves as professionals. Section C discusses professional responsibility.