In the context of ethical practice, when is it acceptable for a psychologist to breach confidentiality?

Breaching confidentiality can be a sensitive issue in ethical practice, and it is typically justified in specific circumstances. In this context, breaching confidentiality is acceptable when there is a risk of harm to the client or others.

Psychologists have a responsibility to protect their clients, but they also have a duty to prevent harm to third parties. If a psychologist believes that a client poses a serious risk of self-harm or harm to others, they are ethically obligated to take action, even if that includes disclosing confidential information to prevent that harm. This action aligns with ethical standards and legal requirements aimed at ensuring safety in potentially dangerous situations.

While obtaining client consent is important for maintaining trust and confidentiality, it is not always practicable or sufficient when someone's safety is at stake. The other choices may suggest situations where confidentiality might be honored; however, they do not carry the same ethical weight or urgency as the obligation to prevent harm. Thus, the ethical framework prioritizes the duty to protect individuals over maintaining confidentiality in scenarios where risk is present.