Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) Practice Exam

What term describes ethical rules that counselors should follow to maintain high professional standards?

1. Mandatory ethics

2. Aspirational ethics

3. Quality ethics

4. Superlative ethics

The correct answer is: Aspirational ethics

The term that describes ethical rules that counselors should follow to maintain high professional standards is aspirational ethics. This concept emphasizes the ideal conduct of professionals, encouraging counselors to strive for the highest ethical standards in their practice. Aspirational ethics involves not only adhering to legal and mandatory guidelines but also promoting the welfare of clients, enhancing their integrity, and working towards the best outcomes. Aspirational ethics focuses on the aspirational goals that guide counselors in their decision-making and professional behavior, encouraging them to act in ways that reflect not only minimal standards but also a commitment to professional growth and positive impact on clients and the community. In contrast, mandatory ethics refers to the basic standards of conduct expected of all professionals; these are the minimum requirements necessary to avoid harm. Quality ethics and superlative ethics are not standard terms recognized in the field of counseling, and they do not convey the same level of professional aspiration embedded in the concept of aspirational ethics.