Rogerian Ethics Analysis

Rogerian ethics, the branch of dialogical ethics that was found by Carl Rogers, argues that one must provide respect through unconditional positive regard when interacting with others (Neher & Sandin, 2017). Additionally, Rogers believed that communication must also include congruence and empathy (Neher & Sandin, 2017). Thus. Congruence is shown through honesty and genuineness. In order to be empathetic, one must learn to “feel with” the other and experience their feelings (Neher & Sandin, 2017, p. 95). Because I am currently applying all three of these dialogical components when communicating with my friend, I am acting ethically. It would be unethical for me to do anything that damages our dialogical relationship. For instance, if I were
Under Rogerian ethics, lying may be ethical because if I chose to tell the truth and intervene, it prevents my friend from having control over his actions and guiding himself towards a better future. According to utilitarianism, the ethics of lying depends on the usefulness. Carl Wellman, a utilitarian, argues that “lying is wrong except to save a human life or to spare hurt feelings over unimportant matters” (Johannesen, Valde & Whedbee, 2017, p. 102). In my situation, lying may be unethical because I could potentially put my friend’s life in danger if he becomes suicidal. Finally, lying would be considered unethical under the rules of ethical egoism because lying goes against my wants and desires because it reduces the likelihood that my friend will openly seek
Each of the three ethical theories discussed do not address suicide, so this is a grey area that may have serious consequences. However, the NCA Credo has deemed that unethical communication,” threatens the quality of all communication and consequently the well-being of individuals and the society in which we live” (“NCA Credo,” 1999). Based on this definition, I believe that my actions are ethical if they reduce the likelihood that suicidal thoughts or behaviors will occur within my friend and improve his well-being. In addition, I believe in preserving the lives of others. Thus, under this concept, the most ethical action would be to intervene as quickly as possible and contact my friend’s family to prevent suicidal thoughts from