Ethical Decision-Making:

What is an ethical dilemma?

• Must involve making a choice
• Different courses of action
• Some ethical principle will be compromised

Examine the Situation

• What are the facts?
• What the pressing issues?
• What values are relevant to the situation?

Think about the Values

• Who could be harmed?
• What are the specific areas of conflict?
• Do any standards in the Code apply?
• Any laws or policies specific to issue?

Hypothesize Options

• What are the possible choices?
• What have others recommended?

Identify Consequences

• What is the impact/consequences of each option (colleagues, client, profession)?
• Who will benefit or be harmed?

Consultation

• What did your supervisor advise?
• What new perspective did you gain from talking with others?

Select action

• Pro/con for each action
• Is one the "least harmful" to all parties?
• Which option assures rights to the most vulnerable?

Advocacy

• Does this situation suggest a change in policy, law, or profession code?
• What is your role now that you understand the dilemma?