Autonomy Definition

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1. In terms of research, there are four basic principles. The first is autonomy. Autonomy is defined as the right to self-determination and the freedom to choose a course of action. In ethics, there are two elements that constitute autonomy: freedom to choose a course of action and the competence to make an informed choice (Houser & Thelma, 2013, p.68). Because autonomy has to do with consent is partly founded on the virtue of ethical theories (p.102). In terms of informed consent, professionals are bound by duty to share information, openly, to clients so that the clients are able to make informed choices. People should be able to do what they want in pursuit of their own interest as long as it does not hurt or interfere with others. The second basic principle is beneficence. Beneficence has to do with looking out for the welfare of others and acting in ways that promotes the welfare of others (p.52). This is also seen as the duty to do good or help. Beneficence is important because it emphasizes on the needs of the clients versus the personal needs of the counselor (p. 102). Beneficence also requires that if you see someone who needs help, that you must provide help for them. However, it must include two conditions: a need for help where there is an obligation to help and an ability to help (p. 102). …show more content…

This means non-harming or inflicting the least harm possible to reach a beneficial outcome; the duty to do no harm (p. 218). Professionals must remain attentive that their actions maximize the good when they have encounters with clients. Nonmaleficence and beneficence are both alike because nonmaleficence promotes that one must refrain from doing the action of harm and beneficence promotes the steps one must take to promote the positive welfare of others. All decisions made, in reference to clients, should be in a way that maximizes the development and well-being of the clients (p.

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