Weighing the Ethical Dilemma: the Case of John

Running head:

Weighing the Ethical Dilemma: The Case of John

Gwendolyn Simmons

COUN5215

Dr. H

Capella University

Table of Contents

• Weighing The Ethical Dilemma

• Synopsis of State Laws

• Resolution of Ethical Dilemma

Abstract

When deciding to further your education in life, you will come across classes that will challenge you, you will be presented with various case studies that will challenge your faith and morals. It is at this time you will find out if this is truly the field you belong in and if you feel you will be equipped to handle the various situations you will come across in the counseling field. You will have to make ethical decisions concerning your clients and in doing this you have to know your state laws so you don’t ever put yourself in a situation where you can lose your licensure.

The Case of John

John is a twenty six year old male who this writer has been treating for anxiety and (self-reported) episodes of depression. This client recently disclosed that he engages in reckless behaviors; as evident of him engaging in unprotected sex with multiple partners while having a communicable disease (HIV). The client has also been involved in a personal intimate relationship and while he speaks openly of their relationship has yet to disclose her identity. The client rationalizes his behaviors with statements like, “I feel as if I’ve been given a death sentence” and “I’m comfortable with knowing that everybody that I sleep with will not get HIV”. He further rationalizes his behaviors informing this writer that his behaviors are coping strategies for his feelings of anxiety and fear associated with his positive status (HIV).

Ethical Dilemma

Morally this writer struggles with the clients’ behaviors due to the threat of “death” he is imposing upon the community. Consumers knowledge of his disease and the dangers that it impose, classify his behaviors as...