Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) Practice Exam

Which principle is not regarded as essential for ethical conduct in the counseling profession?

1. Autonomy

2. Nonmaleficence

3. Beneficence

4. Genuineness

The correct answer is: Genuineness

Genuineness, while important in fostering trust and rapport between counselor and client, is not formally recognized as one of the core ethical principles that guide the counseling profession. The key ethical principles established in counseling include autonomy, which emphasizes the right of clients to make their own choices; nonmaleficence, which stresses the obligation to avoid harm to clients; and beneficence, which focuses on the responsibility to promote the well-being of clients. These principles are foundational to ethical practice and are often reflected in ethical codes within the counseling profession. Genuineness, also referred to as authenticity or congruence, is a characteristic of a good counselor but does not carry the same weight or formal recognition in ethical standards as the other principles. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for counselors to navigate ethical dilemmas and maintain professional integrity.