Values can be found in the individual, ethics in groups or organizations, and laws in larger societies.
What differences are there between values, ethics, and laws? Why are there ethics for counselors?
Depending on your program of study, which codes of ethics will you abide by and why?
“Values pertains to beliefs and attitudes that provide direction to everyday living, whereas ethics
pertains to the beliefs we hold about what constitutes right conduct. Ethics are moral principles
adopted by an individual or group to provide rules for right conduct” (Corey, et al., 2019). Laws are
rules that are enforced by the government. Being able to distinguish between the three is important.
Especially between values and ethics. Because people often use the words interchangeably but
there are differences that matter. There are ethics for counselors to make sure that you are providing
a nonjudgmental service to your clients. It also helps to maintain healthy relationships and know how
to best help clients. The code of ethics I will abide by would be the American Counseling
Associations because I am wanting to become a LPC and my degree is in Clinical Mental Health
Counseling.
Reference:
Corey, G., Corey, M. S., & Corey, C. (2019).
Issues and ethics in the helping professions
(10th ed.).
Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning.
ISBN-13: 9780357690048.
