1984 Winston's Ethical Dilemma

Step 4: Consult with Colleagues, Supervisors, or Experts After considering the above moral principles, Winston consults with a fellow school counselor, Dana, who has been practicing for twenty years. Without revealing any identifying information, Winston discusses his ethical dilemma with Dana and asks for suggestions on possible courses of action. Dana informs Winston that in her experience, she has rarely divulged information that students told her to their teachers unless it was absolutely necessary. In the majority of those cases, she first discussed it with the parent(s) and often the students themselves. She suggests that Winston follow a similar course of action and refrain from telling the teachers any specific information about the
The potential consequences of the first course of action are that the teachers are more reluctant to collaborate with him in the future and the student will not receive the support she needs from her teachers, or the student will receive the support she needs from her teachers and the teachers will understand Winston’s decision. This option may violate the principles of autonomy, nonmaleficence, beneficence, and fidelity because it (a) does not involve the student or her mother in the decision-making process, (b) may be detrimental to the student’s success if she does not receive adequate support, and (c) may prevent Winston from further collaboration with the teachers. However, this option satisfies the principle of veracity as Winston is honest with the teachers about the role confidentiality plays in his
This option may violate all of the moral principles in one way or another. It (a) denies the student and mother any say in what is shared, (b) sets the student up for further breaches of confidentiality, (c) breaks confidentiality and trust, and (d) treats the student differently than other students. The third option may result in a damaged relationship with the teachers, a less successful support system for the student, and the perception of incompetence while simultaneously ensuring confidentiality. This option violates autonomy, for excluding the student and mother from discussions about the decision, and veracity, for ignoring his obligations as a school team member. Beneficence may also be violated here since this may not be the most beneficial option for the student. However, it partially satisfies nonmaleficence and fidelity because it ensures