Lecture on Ethical Decision-Making Models

Introduction

• Importance of ethical decision-making models in human services.
• Situations often arise that require careful ethical consideration.

Key Questions to Consider

• What are ethics and morals?
• Are you an ethical and moral person?
• Differences between ethics and morals.
• Comfort level in making difficult decisions in human services.

Ethics vs Morals

• Ethics:
  • Rules provided by a social system.
  • Aimed at professional or macro-level decisions.
• Morals:
  • Personal principles.
  • Concerned with individual-level decisions.

Ethics vs Law

• Law:
  • Minimum standards for behavior.
  • Breaking the law has legal consequences (fines, jail, etc.).
• Ethics:
  • Professional aspirations.
  • Breaking ethical standards often affects professional licenses or certifications.

Importance of Reviewing Ethical Codes

• Essential for human services professionals to know and review ethical codes.
• Regular review suggested every 2-3 months.
• Helps in aspiring to professional standards.

Application of Ethical Decision-Making Models

• Use ethical models to document and learn from ethical dilemmas.

Example Model: American Association of Christian Counselors' Ethical Decision-Making Model

Steps in the Model

1. Identify the Problem:
   • Recognize when something feels off or is brought to attention.
2. Apply Ethical Codes:
   • Use relevant ethical codes to address the problem.
3. Determine Nature and Dimensions of the Dilemma:
   • Consider factors like age, developmental stage, etc.
4. Generate Potential Courses of Action:
   • Brainstorm possible actions.
5. Consider and Choose the Best Course of Action:
   • Choose what is best for the client, often using consultation.
6. Evaluate the Selected Course of Action:
   • Assess the chosen plan.
7. Implement the Course of Action:
   • Put the decision into practice.
8. Document Everything:
   • Essential for professional and legal accountability.

Conclusion

• Familiarize yourself with ethical decision-making models.
• Use these models to guide decisions in uncertain situations.