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Child Confidentiality Research Paper

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Some laws are vague regarding the issues of confidentiality when treating minors. Usually minors are not allowed to consent to treatment – only the parent or guardian can do this. Exceptions exist however, and vary from state to state. Minors are considered not sufficiently mature until they reach the age of 18 to make decision about their treatment and then the parents may have limited access to confidential information. It is vital for a counselor to match the minor’s developmental level with the stage of development as well as their understanding (Kurpius, 2000).
An example of when the rights of a minor to maintain confidentiality may be subject to infringement is in dealing with a pregnancy. The welfare of the client is of utmost importance

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