Code Of Ethics Comparison

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Code of Ethics Comparison Kristen M. Ulin Liberty University Abstract No indents 150-250 words This paper compares the Code of Ethics for the American Association of Christian Counselors and the American Counseling Association. Both codes were established to guide Professional Counselors in their day to day practice in making ethical decisions. Research indicated the two codes were similar in many ways, but also contrasting in their foundation which outlaid the entire code. The AACC was built on biblical principles, where as the ACA was built on culture and client diversity. Keywords: go here Code of Ethics Comparison Ethics guide the decision-making process of an individual. Ethics and values are a part of every…show more content…
The biggest difference that defines the AACC code is their mission which is described to “… help achieve the primary goals of the AACC- to bring honor to Jesus Christ and his church, promote excellence in Christian counseling, and bring unity to Christian counselors” (AACC Code of Ethics, 2004.) The code was written with a biblical foundation which inspires all of the ethical guidelines. The AACC (2004) code began with 7 foundations outlining the base for their Professional Counselors to follow all being Christ centered. The ACA Code of Ethics focused more on being open to cultural differences. One example was found in their preamble “Association members recognize diversity and embrace a cross-cultural approach in support of the worth, dignity, potential, and uniqueness of people within their social and cultural contexts (ACA Code of Ethics, 2005.) Additionally, in the ACA (2005) ethics code point B.5.c put emphasis on safeguarding client confidentiality with culture appropriate methods where as the AACC (2004) emphasized seeking the Holy Spirit first and helping the client grow a relationship with Jesus Christ which then leads to a satisfied and meaningful life. Another heavy emphasis on multicultural diversity competence was found in section F.11 of the ACA (2005) Code which…show more content…
Sexual relations with former clients are also completely forbidden according to section 1-131 in the AACC (2004) Code of Ethics. According to the ACA (2005) in section A.5 sexual or romantic counselor-client interactions with current clients, their family members or partners is prohibited. The standards are slightly different under the ACA (2005) for former clients. All sexual or romantic relationships are only prohibited for a 5 year time period where as the AACC defines all relationship with former clients unethical regardless of the timeframe. Furthermore, the AACC (2004) states in section 1-133 since marriage is honorable before God, marriage is prohibited to former clients with a lone exception to the rule that it is acceptable so long as the relationship was properly terminated, the client is aware that further counseling must be done by another, there is no harm or exploitation of the client or the client’s family and that the marriage takes place two years or more after the conclusion of a counseling

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