Ethical Dilemmas And Ethical Decision Making
Ethical Dilemmas And Ethical Decision Making
(Ethical Dilemmas And Ethical Decision Making)
Ethical dilemmas are situations where individuals face conflicting moral principles or values, making it challenging to determine the right course of action. These dilemmas often arise when there are competing interests or when the consequences of a decision have significant implications for different stakeholders. Ethical decision-making involves navigating these complex situations by considering various factors and arriving at a choice that aligns with ethical principles and values.
One common framework for ethical decision-making is the “ethical triad,” which comprises three main components: consequences, duties, and virtues. Evaluating the potential consequences of different actions involves considering the impact on stakeholders and society as a whole. This utilitarian perspective aims to maximize overall well-being or minimize harm. However, it’s essential to ensure that this approach doesn’t overlook the rights and duties owed to individuals, as highlighted by the deontological perspective. Duties such as honesty, fairness, and respect for autonomy play a crucial role in ethical decision-making, emphasizing the importance of upholding moral principles regardless of the outcomes. Additionally, considering the virtues or character traits involved can provide insight into the moral integrity of the decision-maker and the potential long-term consequences of their actions.
Ethical dilemmas often require individuals to balance these different perspectives and prioritize ethical values based on the specific circumstances. This process can be guided by ethical principles such as beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, and autonomy, which provide a framework for evaluating competing interests and making ethically sound decisions. However, resolving ethical dilemmas is not always straightforward and may involve trade-offs between conflicting principles or values.
Furthermore, cultural, social, and contextual factors can influence ethical decision-making, as what is considered ethical may vary across different cultures and societies. It’s essential to recognize and respect these differences while also striving to uphold universal ethical principles that promote human dignity and well-being.
In conclusion, ethical dilemmas are inherent in many aspects of life, requiring individuals to engage in ethical decision-making processes that consider various perspectives, principles, and values. By employing frameworks such as the ethical triad and adhering to ethical principles, individuals can navigate complex moral challenges and make decisions that uphold integrity and promote the greater good.
To prepare for this Discussion:
- Review this week’s Learning Resources, particularly the various guidelines assigned this week and last, Chapter 1 in Ethical Practice in Forensic Psychology: A Systematic Model for Decision Making and the article “When Boundaries Are Broken: Inmate’s Perceptions of Correctional Staff Boundary Violations.”
- Choose one boundary violation from the list on page 364 of the article “When Boundaries Are Broken: Inmate Perceptions of Correctional Staff Boundary Violations” and consider which ethical guidelines pertain to this violation.
Post by Day 3 a response to the following:
- Identify the boundary violation you have chosen from the list on page 364 in the article “When Boundaries Are Broken: Inmate Perceptions of Correctional Staff Boundary Violations.”
- Describe the relevant ethical guideline(s) that pertain to the boundary violation.
- Explain how you would apply each of the following eight steps of the ethical decision-making model from Chapter 1 in Ethical Practice in Forensic Psychology: A Systematic Model for Decision Making to your selected boundary violation:
- Identify the Problem
- Consider the Significance of the Context and Setting
- Identify and Use Ethical and Legal Resources
- Consider Personal Beliefs and Values
- Develop Possible Solutions to the Problem
- Consider the Potential Consequences of Various Solutions
- Choose and Implement a Course of Action
- Assess the Outcome and Implement Changes as Needed