Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What does the ethical principle of non-maleficence require from therapists?

1. To ensure they promote client well-being

2. To refrain from causing harm to clients

3. To maintain a strict professional demeanor

4. To adhere to advertising guidelines

The correct answer is: To refrain from causing harm to clients

The ethical principle of non-maleficence specifically requires therapists to refrain from causing harm to clients. This principle emphasizes the importance of doing no harm, which is foundational in the practice of therapy. It obligates therapists to carefully consider the potential consequences of their actions, interventions, and decisions to ensure that they do not inflict physical, emotional, or psychological harm on their clients. Non-maleficence is a crucial aspect of ethical practice in healthcare and therapy. It mandates that therapists remain vigilant about their methods, techniques, and interactions with clients to avoid any negative impact. While promoting client well-being and maintaining professional standards are also important for ethical practice, they do not directly capture the essence of non-maleficence, which is specifically focused on the avoidance of harm.