Ethical Dilemmas of Confidentiality With Adolescent Clients: Case Studies From Psychologists

• Published in: Ethics & behavior 2015-05, Vol.25 (3), p.197-221
• Main Authors: Duncan, Rony E., Hall, Annette C., Knowles, Ann
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: adolescent; Case studies; Client relationships; Confidentiality; Disclosure; ethics; minors; parents; privacy; Professional ethics; psychiatry; Psychologists; psychology; Qualitative research; Studies; Teenagers
• ISSN: 1050-8422; 1532-7019
• DOI: 10.1080/10508422.2014.923314

Navigating limits to confidentiality with adolescent clients can be ethically and professionally challenging. This study follows on from a previous quantitative survey of psychologists about confidentiality dilemmas with adolescents. The current study used qualitative methods to explore such dilemmas in greater depth. Twenty Australian psychologists were interviewed and asked to describe an ethically challenging past case. Cases were then used to facilitate discussion about the decision-making process and outcomes. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using interpretive content and thematic analysis. Three key findings are discussed. First, it is of little use to perceive confidentiality dilemmas as binary choices (breach/don't breach) because psychologists described 5 distinct options. These can be conceptualized on a spectrum of varying degrees of client autonomy, ranging from "no disclosure" (highest client autonomy) to "disclosure without the client's knowledge or consent" (lowest client autonomy). Second, confidentiality dilemmas often involve balancing multiple and conflicting risks regarding both immediate and future harm. Third, a range of strategies are employed by psychologists to minimize potential harms when disclosing information. These are primarily aimed at maintaining the therapeutic relationship and empowering clients. These findings and the case studies described provide a valuable resource for teaching and professional development.