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Ethical Dilemma as a Correctional Counselor

Describe One Ethical Dilemma You Might Struggle With as a Correctional Counselor: Giving Relevant Reasons

[Your Name]
July 17, 2025

Abstract

This paper explores the ethical dilemma of maintaining confidentiality versus reporting potential harm in the context of a correctional counselor. The dilemma arises when an inmate discloses intentions to harm others upon release. Relevant reasons, including legal obligations, therapeutic alliance, and personal moral conflict, are discussed to highlight the complexity of this issue.

Main Body

As a correctional counselor, one significant ethical dilemma I might struggle with is balancing the duty to maintain confidentiality with the obligation to report potential harm disclosed by an inmate. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship, fostering trust between the counselor and the inmate (American Psychological Association [APA], 2017). However, this trust is tested when an inmate reveals plans to harm others upon release, triggering a legal and ethical duty to protect potential victims (Tarvydas & Johnston, 2019).

The first reason for this struggle is the legal mandate under the Tarasoff duty, which requires counselors to warn identifiable victims of potential harm (APA, 2017). In a correctional setting, identifying such victims may be challenging, yet failing to report could result in legal repercussions and moral guilt if harm occurs. This creates a tension between adhering to professional standards and the instinct to protect society.

Second, maintaining the therapeutic alliance is critical for an inmate’s rehabilitation. Breaching confidentiality might erode trust, hindering the inmate’s progress and willingness to engage in counseling (Glosser & Barnes, 2020). This conflict weighs heavily, as my role is to support rehabilitation, yet silence could enable harm, contradicting the principle of beneficence.

Third, personal moral conflict adds to the dilemma. As an individual, I may feel a strong ethical obligation to prevent harm, yet the breach of trust with the inmate could conflict with my values of integrity and empathy. This internal struggle complicates decision-making, especially under the high-stakes environment of a correctional facility.

In conclusion, navigating confidentiality versus the duty to warn presents a profound ethical challenge. The interplay of legal, professional, and personal factors underscores the need for clear guidelines and support systems to aid correctional counselors in such situations.

References

American Psychological Association. (2017). Ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct. https://www.apa.org/ethics/code

Glosser, D., & Barnes, M. (2020). Confidentiality in correctional counseling: Balancing trust and safety. Journal of Correctional Health Care, 26(3), 245-252.

Tarvydas, V., & Johnston, J. (2019). Ethical decision-making in mental health professions. Counseling Today, 62(4), 34-39.