Mandatory ethics.

A key ethical principle that applies is respect for persons (autonomy). This principle recognizes Alex's right to self-determination. It means I must respect Alex's choices, values, and beliefs, and empower them to make their own decisions about their life, even if I don't agree with them. I must ensure Alex has all the necessary information to make informed decisions.

4. One Important Virtue:

An important virtue in my interaction with Alex is compassion. Compassion involves genuinely caring about Alex's well-being and striving to alleviate their suffering. It means approaching Alex with empathy, understanding, and a willingness to help. It does not mean I take on Alex's problems as my own, but rather that I offer support and resources with genuine care.

5. Comparing the Four Types of Ethics:

• Mandatory Ethics: The "floor" of ethical conduct – the absolute minimum requirements. Example: Maintaining confidentiality.
• Aspirational Ethics: The "ceiling" of ethical conduct – the highest ideals of professional behavior. Example: Advocating for systemic changes to address the root causes of Alex's difficulties (e.g., poverty, lack of affordable housing).
• Principle Ethics: Focuses on specific ethical principles, like autonomy, beneficence (acting in the best interests of the client), non-maleficence (avoiding harm), and justice (fairness). Example: Respecting Alex's autonomy by allowing them to choose which resources they want to pursue.
• Virtue Ethics: Emphasizes the character and integrity of the professional. Focuses on virtues like compassion, integrity, prudence, and trustworthiness. Example: Acting with compassion by listening empathetically to Alex's concerns.

Similarities: All four types of ethics guide professional behavior and aim to promote the well-being of the client.

Differences: Mandatory ethics sets the minimum standards, aspirational ethics sets the highest goals, principle ethics provides a framework of principles, and virtue ethics focuses on the character of the professional.

How They Guide Actions: Mandatory ethics dictates what I must do. Principle ethics provides a framework for how I should act. Virtue ethics informs who I should be as a professional. Aspirational ethics inspires me to strive for the best possible outcomes for Alex and others like them.

6. One Aspirational Ethical Goal:

An aspirational ethical goal would be to empower Alex to become self-sufficient and resilient in the face of future challenges. This might involve helping Alex develop new skills, build a support network, or access resources that will enable them to overcome their current difficulties and achieve long-term stability.

7. Comparing and Contrasting and Guiding Decision-Making:

• Mandatory vs. Aspirational: Mandatory ethics are the bare minimum, while aspirational ethics are ideals we strive for. Mandatory ethics guides my required actions (e.g., I must maintain confidentiality), while aspirational ethics guides my desired actions (e.g., I should advocate for systemic change).
• Mandatory vs. Principle: Mandatory ethics are often based on principles, but they are more specific and enforceable. The principle of autonomy requires me to obtain informed consent (mandatory), but it also inspires me to support Alex's self-determination in broader ways (aspirational).
• Mandatory vs. Virtue: Mandatory ethics sets external standards, while virtue ethics focuses on internal character. I must be confidential (mandatory), but I should also be trustworthy and compassionate (virtues).
• Principle vs. Virtue: Principles are guidelines for action, while virtues are character traits that motivate ethical action. The principle of beneficence guides me to act in Alex's best interest, while the virtue of compassion motivates me to care about Alex's well-being.
• Aspirational vs. Virtue: Aspirational goals reflect our values and what we hope to achieve, while virtues are the qualities that help us achieve those goals. My aspirational goal is to empower Alex, and the virtue of perseverance helps me to stay committed to that goal even when faced with challenges.

These four types of ethics work together to inform my decision-making. Mandatory ethics sets the boundaries, principle ethics guides my actions, virtue ethics shapes my character, and aspirational ethics provides a vision for what I hope to achieve. By considering all four types of ethics, I can make well-informed and ethically sound decisions that promote Alex's well-being and uphold the standards of my profession.

Let's explore the ethical considerations in working with Alex, a client facing significant challenges.

1. Defining Mandatory Ethics:

Mandatory ethics, also known as obligatory ethics, refers to the minimum standards of professional conduct that are required by law, regulations, or professional codes of ethics. These are the "musts" and "must nots" of professional behavior. Failing to adhere to mandatory ethics can result in legal penalties or disciplinary action from professional organizations.

2. One Mandatory Ethical Standard:

A crucial mandatory ethical standard is confidentiality. I am legally and ethically bound to protect the information Alex shares with me. This means I cannot disclose any information about Alex's situation to anyone without their informed consent, except in very specific circumstances (e.g., if Alex poses a danger to themselves or others, or if I am legally required to report suspected child abuse).

3. One Key Ethical Principle: