Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What action should a therapist take when an 18-year-old client discloses an assault without remorse?

1. File a child abuse report and process it with client

2. Determine the age of the victim and file a report if necessary

3. Maintain confidentiality and document incident in record

4. Identify alternative coping skills and role play in session

The correct answer is: Determine the age of the victim and file a report if necessary

The appropriate action for a therapist when an 18-year-old client discloses an assault is closely tied to the legal obligations surrounding mandatory reporting and the ethical considerations regarding the safety of others. One of the primary responsibilities of a mental health professional is to ensure the safety and well-being of potential victims. When determining the age of the victim, the therapist must assess whether the situation meets the criteria for mandatory reporting under state laws, which often require reporting if the victim is a minor. If the disclosed assault involves a victim who is under the age of 18, since minors are often considered vulnerable individuals in these contexts, the therapist would be obligated to file a report to the appropriate authorities to trigger an investigation. This step is crucial for protecting the victim and addressing any ongoing risks associated with the assault. While maintaining confidentiality is generally vital in therapeutic contexts, it is not absolute when the safety of others is at risk. Therefore, the emphasis on determining the victim's age reflects a critical step in fulfilling both legal and ethical responsibilities. By taking this action, therapists uphold their professional duty to protect potentially vulnerable individuals while navigating the complexities of confidentiality.