Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) Practice Exam

Which ethical principle is being followed by maintaining confidentiality in test results?

1. Informed consent

2. Autonomy

3. Non-maleficence

4. Beneficence

The correct answer is: Informed consent

Maintaining confidentiality in test results aligns with the ethical principle of informed consent because it involves ensuring that clients are fully aware of how their information will be used and shared. Informed consent is a fundamental concept in counseling, where clients have the right to be informed about the processes and implications of psychological testing, including the handling of their results. By upholding confidentiality, counselors respect the clients' autonomy over their personal information, allowing clients to make informed decisions without fear of their data being disclosed without consent. This principle is essential for building trust between the client and the counselor, as clients are more likely to engage openly in the assessment process when they know that their privacy will be protected. Confidentiality fosters a safe environment for clients to share sensitive information, ultimately leading to more accurate assessments and effective therapy. Other options relate to important ethical considerations as well but do not specifically address the issue of confidentiality in test results. For instance, autonomy focuses on the client's right to make their own choices, while non-maleficence emphasizes avoiding harm. Beneficence speaks to the duty of helping clients and promoting their well-being. While these principles are interconnected and relevant to ethical practice in counseling, the specific act of maintaining confidentiality most directly reflects the principle of informed consent.