BENCHMARK CRITICAL INCIDENT 2
Benchmark Critical Incident
Identify?
The primary issue in this scenario revolves around a failure to address a complaint of
inappropriate sexual remarks within a mixed-gender group designed for anger management and
conflict resolution. This issue is complex and encompasses ethical and professional concerns. A
group member's inappropriate sexual remarks constitute harassment and create an uncomfortable
and unsafe environment for Carol. Jack, a newly licensed counselor, is unskilled in his ability to
effectively manage this group dynamic and address this behavior, which points to incompetence.
His decision to ignore Carol's complaint and not take appropriate action not only disregards the
well-being and safety of his clients but also constitutes an ethical violation of professional
standards. Jack's failure to seek guidance or consultation from a more experienced counselor or
supervisor reflects a lack of professional judgment and ethical responsibility. Overall, this issue
results in the client leaving the group and potentially causes negative consequences for the
cohesiveness of the group.
Summarize
There are many ACA code of ethics (2014) codes that apply to this situation. First and
foremost, ACA codes A.1.a and A.2.a emphasize the importance of competence (ACA, 2014).
As a newly licensed counselor, Jack should ensure that he possesses the skills required to
facilitate this type of group. ACA code A.4.b is a code that pertains to eliminating the potential
for harm. Jack should be aware of the potential for harm in the group setting, especially when
working with clients with anger management and conflict resolution issues (ACA, 2014). ACA
code C.2.g is about the referral expectations (ACA, 2014). This may have been a situation where
BENCHMARK CRITICAL INCIDENT 3
Jack should have referred Carol elsewhere. Furthermore, ACA code E.6.b pertains to utilizing an
ethical decision-making process, which Jack did not do (ACA, 2014).
Act
In a controlled and safe manner, Jack should address the issue within the group setting
and do so without disclosing specific details about Carol's complaint to maintain confidentiality.
This could foster open dialogue about group expectations and appropriate behavior. I find this
route to be the most practical way to ensure that this issue is both addressed and prevented from
occurring again in the future by not just the current verbal offender but everyone in Jack’s group
going forward.
