Nonmaleficence as an ethical principle is most accurately described by which statement?

Nonmaleficence as an ethical principle is most accurately described by which statement?

• A. Respect client autonomy
• B. Beneficence to maximize good
• C. Do no harm to clients
• D. Ensure justice

Answer: (C)

Nonmaleficence means the obligation to do no harm. In practice, this is about avoiding actions that could injure a client or worsen their condition—protecting them from unnecessary risks, respecting boundaries, and not proceeding with treatments beyond one’s competence. That’s why the statement “do no harm to clients” best captures the essence of nonmaleficence. The other principles describe related but distinct duties: respecting autonomy focuses on supporting clients’ right to make their own decisions; beneficence is about actively promoting good and beneficial outcomes; and justice concerns fair and equitable treatment. While all are important in counseling, nonmaleficence specifically centers on avoiding harm.

Nonmaleficence means the obligation to do no harm. In practice, this is about avoiding actions that could injure a client or worsen their condition—protecting them from unnecessary risks, respecting boundaries, and not proceeding with treatments beyond one’s competence. That’s why the statement “do no harm to clients” best captures the essence of nonmaleficence.

The other principles describe related but distinct duties: respecting autonomy focuses on supporting clients’ right to make their own decisions; beneficence is about actively promoting good and beneficial outcomes; and justice concerns fair and equitable treatment. While all are important in counseling, nonmaleficence specifically centers on avoiding harm.