Knowledge Reflection Paper #4
Assigned Readings – Chapter 7 - Truscott, Derek, and Kenneth H. Crook. Ethics for the Practice
of Psychology in Canada, Third ed. Edmonton: University of Alberta Press, 2021.
Assignment Due Date – 28 February 2025
Helping without harming is inevitable in the professional world, emphasizing the importance of
providing support and care without unintentional harm. I consider this an essential principle in
healthcare, including dentistry, church ministry, and counseling, where individuals seek
guidance, treatment, or assistance.
Philosophically, the duty of nonmaleficence emphasizes avoiding harm through thoughtful and
informed actions (Truscott & Crook, 2021, p.125). This aligns with the Hippocratic principle "do
no harm" and professional guidelines like Principle II: Responsible Caring (Truscott & Crook,
2021, p.123). Theologically, Christian teachings highlight the importance of showing
compassion, integrity, and service to others, as reflected in Matthew 22:39, which encourages us
to “love your neighbor as yourself.” This ensures that the help we offer to others is rooted in
respect and love. The virtues discussed in the lecture were particularly insightful. Beneficence
reflects virtues like mercy, kindness, generosity, and charity, aligning with Christian teachings.
Galatians 5:22-23 (NASB) states, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience,
kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
These virtues guide professionals in promoting a safe and nurturing environment for those they
serve. Practically, CRPO Practice Standard 1.4.2 says that professionals must be competent to
perform their duties safely and effectively, reinforcing the ethical duty to provide care within
one’s scope of practice and avoid potential harm (Module 4, Slide 5). Achieving competence
requires a balance of knowledge, skills, and judgment (Truscott & Crook, 2021, p.123-124).
Upholding the six values outlined in the lecture is essential to avoiding harm while helping
others. Fidelity involves honoring commitments to patients and maintaining integrity in
professional relationships. Nonmaleficence and beneficence work together, balancing proactive
support with avoiding potential harm. Respecting autonomy and ensuring justice by treating all
patients with dignity are crucial for helping without harming. Upholding our responsibility to
society further reinforces this ethical framework (Module 4, slide 3).
In dentistry, three potential ways harm can occur include: 1. Overtreatment: Recommending
unnecessary dental procedures for financial gain (act of commission).
2. Neglecting Oral Health Risks: Failing to identify signs of systemic health issues through oral
symptoms (act of omission).
3. Boundary violations: Allowing dual relationships to develop might compromise objectivity
and professional judgment.
Overconfidence in one's skills or financial incentives may lead a dentist to prescribe unnecessary
procedures, which is known as overtreatment. This can result in physical harm, financial burden,
and a decline in trust toward healthcare providers. Dentists must prioritize the client's best
interests by providing only necessary treatments and adhering to ethical principles like
beneficence and nonmaleficence.
Is it ethical for a Christian counselor to decline to work with a client whose beliefs or lifestyle
conflict with their personal or religious values? As a Christian, I am dedicated to upholding
Christian and ethical values in every situation to ensure that the care I provide does not cause
harm. Professionals can navigate complex situations with integrity and care by integrating
philosophical, theological, and practical principles into practice.