The case of Armani
Write a paper applying the following information:
Summarize the situation and identify the ethical dilemma(s).
Describe how you, as the Human Services Professional, would approach this ethical dilemma while:
• Implementing the least intrusive intervention
• Respecting confidentiality
• Recognizing the client's multicultural ethical behavior
Referencing Style: APA Style
The Case of Anami.
Anami is a counselor in a university counseling center. Tai, a first generation Asian American client, is caught between the religion of his
parents, who are Buddhist, and his different emerging beliefs. Since entering the university environment, Tai has begun to question his Buddhist upbringing, yet he has not found anything to replace his parents' values. He feels lost and does not know what to believe.
Anami considers herself to be a holistic counselor, and her client assessments include asking questions about family history, personal history, religious and spiritual upbringing, life turning points, physical health, nutrition, and social relationships. In the process of the assessment, she discovers that many of the issues Tai is struggling with pertain to Buddhism. Anami tells Tai: "I think I can assist you in the things you struggle with, but I have limited knowledge of the Buddhist religion. With your permission I would like to consult on specifi c matters with a colleague who is a Buddhist. I may also recommend a Buddhist teacher to you to help you clarify some specifi c beliefs you mentioned earlier. Is this acceptable to you?" Tai nods in agreement.
- What do you think of the way Anami handled this case?
- Would you have done anything differently, and if so, what?
- What kind of alternative roles can you think of using in working with Tai?
- Do you think Anami should have referred Tai because of her lack of familiarity with Buddhism?
Commentary. We fi nd little to disagree with in the way Anami handled the case. We like the way she recognized and acknowledged
her limitations, for being willing to educate herself on these matters, and also for being willing to consult with someone who has greater expertise than she does.