What case are you examining?
Case 1
A 17-year-old comes to your office, asking for birth control. In addition, she requests that her
parents not be informed. What will you do?
What principles are relevant to the case?
The principle of Autonomy is relevant to this case as it represents the patient’s wishes.
The principle of Beneficence as it relates to doing good by promoting patients' health and well-
being.
Clearly explain how they apply to the moral features of the case.
As clinicians, we have the responsibility to ensure that patients are not forced into deciding and
to present them with honest and accurate information. This is in addition to making sure that no
other outside influence directs the patient's choice forcing the patient to have or decline a
particular treatment and or procedure.
What is the relevant medical information?
The relevant medical information for this case includes the patient's age of 17 as well as the
reason for the visit, requesting birth control. This is medically relevant as an early pregnancy can
affect the patient negatively and expose them to other conditions and or illnesses due to the
pregnancy.
Comment on the CMDA position as it relates to this case.
The CMDA “affirms that children at all stages of development are precious human beings
bearing the image of God. Children are loved by God, belong to their families, and share in their
communities. The family is the normal environment wherein children are to be cherished,
protected, and prepared to take on adult responsibilities” (CMDA, 2018). To this end, I believe
that a 17-year-old is prepared, to some extent to make an adult decision to use birth control.
However, unmarried individuals as well as couples to “honestly evaluate their reasons for
desiring contraception and interference with the procreative process. It also noted as Biblical
healthcare providers, our job is to promote health, nurture, and direct our advice and care to
make certain that we have not assisted with an inadvertent abortion” (Waldron 2022).
Cite a minimum of 4 Scripture references that provide an indication of overarching
principles.
1)Psalm 127:3-4: No doubt about it: children are a gift from the Lord; the fruit of the
womb is a divine reward. The children born when one is young are like arrows in the
hand of a warrior.
2)John 16:21: When a woman gives birth, she has pain because her time has come. But
when the child is born, she no longer remembers her distress because of the joy that a
child has been born into the world.
3)Psalm 127:3-5: Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a
reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. Blessed is
the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with
his enemies in the gate.
4)Jeremiah 29:1: I know the plans I have in mind for you, declares the Lord; they are
plans for peace, not a disaster, to give you a future filled with hope.
What resolution do you suggest?
The resolution I would suggest is to evaluate the patient and provide educational information,
resources and ultimately honor the patient's request and provide a prescription for birth control. It
is my opinion that extramarital relationships will continue to proceed, and rather than allow
procreation to occur, with a possibility of an abortion, I agree that offering an alternative may be
the better course of action. In addition, due to current HIPAA laws as well as following the
principles presented in this case, I would not involve the patient's parents. However, I would
encourage the patient to involve her patients and or counselors. That way I can ensure the patient
is well informed about their decision to have sex and not to abstain as well as the consequences.
2. What case are you examining?
Case 2
A young couple is desiring to space out the timing of having children. What will you advise?
What principles are relevant to the case?
Justice: Fairly distribute benefits, risks, and costs
Autonomy: Recognize and respect the moral worth of rational beings who can self-govern
Clearly explain how they apply to the moral features of the case.
The ethical principle of justice applies to the moral features of this case as both parties need to
consider the fair distribution of responsibilities as it pertains to having more children. This
includes who is going to be the primary caregiver who is going to be the primary breadwinner
the risks and benefits or tradeoffs of having more kids in comparison to their current life now.
The ethical principle of autonomy is relevant to the moral features of this case as both parties
display the rationale of being able to self-govern and this should be respected recognized and
respected when deciding.
What is the relevant medical information?
The relevant medical information pertinent to this case would be the woman's ability to bear
more children and the effects on her body. 1 major deciding factor should be the outcome of the
pregnancy if the woman will be able to successfully carry the pregnancy to term without major
complications or risks to her health.
Comment on the CMDA position as it relates to this case.
The CMDA position as it relates to this case states that “Children are a gift from God to the
family. Parents are entrusted with the responsibility to love, nurture, protect, and train for their
children.” I firmly believe this and feel this should be taken into consideration by the parents
when deciding whether to have more children or not (CMDA, 2018).
What Bible verses (at least 4) can you cite that provide an indication of overarching
principles?
1)1 Timothy 2:15: Yet she will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith
and love and holiness, with self-control.
2)Psalm 128:3: Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will
be like olive shoots around your table.
3)Genesis 16:10: The angel of the Lord also said to her, “I will surely multiply your
offspring so that they cannot be numbered for multitude.”
4)Genesis 28:14: Your offspring shall be like the dust of the earth, and you shall spread
abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south, and in you and your
offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed.
What resolution do you suggest?
I would suggest that the couple consider their ability to provide for the subsequent children
completely and unequivocally. This includes finances, love, nurture, and protection. I would
additionally advise the couple to seek guidance in the form of a counselor and or spiritual leader.
3. What case are you examining?
Case 3
A young man who has struggled since adolescence with same-sex attraction has met another
such young man at church, who is suggesting they be married. What do you advise?
What principles are relevant to the case?
Beneficence.
Clearly explain how they apply to the moral features of the case.
The principle of beneficence applies to the moral features of the case as the focus of the clinician
would be to do good by promoting the well-being of patients. Meaning that the clinician should
provide options that would improve the patient's overall well-being, particularly their mental
health. As this kind of affliction presented in this case has the tendency to affect an individual’s
psyche due to societal implications and the belief one is going against their teachings.
What is the relevant medical information?
The relevant medical information for this case includes the propensity for spreading sexually
transmitted diseases as well as the inability to procreate.
Comment on the CMDA position as it relates to this case.
The CMDA position as it relates to this case contends that “marriage is a consensual, exclusive
and lifelong commitment between one man and one woman… with significant contributions to
human flourishing and societal stability.” Nonetheless, the CMDA position also “affirms that all
human beings are created in the image of, and beloved by, God. All human beings are our
neighbors and are to be loved by us as we love ourselves. As such, every human being possesses
intrinsic dignity and is worthy of equal respect and concern from healthcare professionals”
(CMDA, 2018). I agree with both statements, that every human being is entitled to quality and
effective healthcare. However, I also concur that “God designed males and females to join in the
sexual union in marriage. That he created a special gift, sex, for the marriage relationship, and as
the means for procreation. It is stated that to choose to indulge our sexual desires outside of
God’s design is to oppose His best plans for flourishing in this life” (Waldron, 2022).
What Bible verses (at least 4) can you cite that provide an indication of overarching
principles?
1.Heb. 13:4: Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be
undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.
2.Matthew 19:4: He answered, “Have you not read that he who created them from the
beginning made them male and female,
3.Romans 1:26–27: For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their
women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; 27 and the men
likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one
another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due
penalty for their error.
4.Matt. 15:19: For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual
immorality, theft, false witness, slander.
What resolution do you suggest?
To provide a resolution, without condemning and/or commanding, I would suggest that both men
seek counseling and spiritual guidance. I would advise them to operate in the righteousness of
the lord as they both have been thought since they are Christians.
4. What case are you examining?
Case 4
A woman consults you because her husband feels their marital life is boring. He wants to have
them utilize pornography, but it makes her uncomfortable. They have been married 10 years, and
he feels that he might be unfaithful if she does not acquiesce to him. They are Christians and
want to know your best advice.
What principles are relevant to the case?
The principle of Autonomy and Justice.
Clearly explain how they apply to the moral features of the case.
The principle of Autonomy applies to the moral features of the case as both partners need to
recognize and respect the moral worth of each other’s rationalization as well as their ability to
self-govern.
The principle of justice surrounds the concept of fair distribution of benefits, risks, and costs.
This applies to this case as both parties must accept equal responsibility for the costs of
pornographic material including access. As well as the risks of developing an addiction and or
the cause of the demise of the relationship.
What is the relevant medical information?
The relevant medical information, in this case, pertains to medical injuries relating to sexual
activities.
Comment on the CMDA position as it relates to this case.
I agree with several aspects of the CMDA position as it relates to the case. This includes the
notion that “Pornography has no beneficial use but damages human relationships” (CMDA,
2018). This is my opinion as I believe many would seek out individuals that can perform the sex
acts viewed and/ or raise their sexual expectations of their partners. This in turn will
subsequently result in the end of the relationship. Furthermore, some individuals have a
propensity to develop a pornography addiction which would ultimately damage relationships,
even those of a non-sexual nature. This is further supported by the claim that “humans cannot
know the limits of depravity to which they will descend if certain doors are opened. So, when the
desired “high” is not attained by “normal” or soft porn, lust/sin can continue to drive individuals
to seek more and abnormal porn. The solution to lust is not to feed it, but to instead surround
oneself with more positive influences and accountability” (Waldron, 2022).
What Bible verses (at least 4) can you cite that provide an indication of overarching
principles?
1.Matthew 5:28: But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already
committed adultery with her in his heart.
2.Psalms 119:37: Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to
your word.
3.James 1:14-15: 14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own
evil desire and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin,
when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
4.Ephesians 5:11-12: 11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather
expose them. 12 It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret.
What resolution do you suggest?
I would suggest the couple seek counseling in addition to participating in recreational activities.
It is my opinion that if the couple fills their perceived downtime with engaging activities that
would expose them to new things and even afford them the opportunity to learn about their
partners in a more in-depth way.
5. What case are you examining?
Case 5
A young couple believes they cannot be married yet because of financial constraints, but are
engaging in heavy petting and wish to know, as Christians, what you think. Their avowed goal is
to refrain from intercourse until marriage.
What principles are relevant to the case?
Autonomy
Clearly explain how they apply to the moral features of the case.
The principle of Respect for Autonomy: Recognize and respect the moral worth of rational beings
who can self-govern.
What is the relevant medical information?
N/A
Comment on the CMDA position as it relates to this case.
N/A
What Bible verses (at least 4) can you cite that provide an indication of overarching
principles?
1.Corinthians 10:13: “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to
mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.
But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
2.Peter 2:11 “Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful
desires, which wage war against your soul.”
3.Thessalonians 4:3-4: 3 “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should
avoid sexual immorality; 4 that each of you should learn to control your own body in a
way that is holy and honorable,”
4.2 Timothy 2:22: “Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and
peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
What resolution do you suggest?
I would suggest the couple spend their time doing more constructive things such as getting their
finances where they perceive they need to afford a wedding and ultimately support a family with
children.
6. What case are you examining?
Case 6
A thirteen-year-old female tells you that she feels that she is a male trapped in a female body.
What do you want to advise? Her mother trusts your opinion and wants an honest answer.
What principles are relevant to the case?
The principle of Nonmaleficence and Beneficence.
Clearly explain how they apply to the moral features of the case.
Nonmaleficence applies to the moral features of this case as it relates to avoiding causing
unnecessary harm to the patient. For me, this translates to not providing options that would
further prove harmful and/ or determinantal to the patient. This includes suggesting procedures
that would inflict harm to the patient.
Beneficence applies to this case as its premise is to do good by promoting the health and well-
being of patients. Meaning that the guidance the therapy options presented to the patients
should ultimately support the overall medical and social health of the patient.
What is the relevant medical information?
Suicide, mutilation, and Self-treating with medication to include hormone replacement.
Comment on the CMDA position as it relates to this case.
I concur with the CMDA position as it relates to this case involves the concept that “Christians
affirm the biblical understanding of humankind as having been created male and female, with the
two sexes having equal dignity and a complementary relationship to each other” (CMDA, 2018).
This is supported by the belief that “humanity has a clear gender assignment at birth, given by
our Creator. This includes an external physical appearance precisely coinciding with the XY/XX
chromosomal information contained within each cell. Despite some individuals may suffer from
congenital anomalies and indeterminate sex, such as adrenogenital syndromes” (Waldron, 2022).
What Bible verses (at least 4) can you cite that provide an indication of overarching
principles?
1.Deuteronomy 22:5, “A woman shall not wear a man’s apparel, nor shall a man put on a
woman’s garment; for whoever does such things is abhorrent to the LORD your God”
2.Deuteronomy 23:1 “He who is emasculated by crushing or mutilation shall not enter the
assembly of the Lord.”
3.Matthew 19:12 “For there are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs
who have been made eunuchs by others—and there are those who choose to live like
eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should
accept it.”
4.1 Corinthians 6:19 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit,
who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;”
What resolution do you suggest?
Much like the book I too believe in compassion, care, counseling, prayer, and referrals need to be
when dealing with patients presenting with a gender dysphoria situation. In my approach for this
case, I would suggest family counseling. Furthermore, I would not recommend the use of drugs
or hormone-altering therapies. Studies such as those conducted by philosopher Dr. Ryan T.
Anderson, support the concept that “95% of children who express a discordant gender identity
will come to identify with their bodily sex if natural development is allowed to proceed” and
“transitioning treatment has NOT been shown to reduce the extraordinarily high rate of suicide
attempts among people who identify as transgender (41% compared with 4.6% of the general
population)” (Waldron, 2022).
Question
Should the government fund sex studies?
I believe the government should fund sex studies as the advantages associated with such
expenditure have been proven beneficial to the public. The human experience consists of a
fundamental component, Sexuality. As such developing a more in-depth understanding of what
excites people and what lowers sexual inhibitions can lead to a better more fulfilled experience.
Studies show an increased number of patients inquire with their doctors about sex as they
consider it a vital aspect of their lives. To this point, the public would benefit from evidence-
based sex advice. It is well known that a sexual experience is not always good but can be
improved through research as such investigations further aid the understanding of a vast array of
concepts including enjoyment of sex for the elderly to obtaining information on high-risk sexual
behavior or educated gay men and the proliferation of rape.
Moreover, there are studies that investigate the different kinds of pornography that stimulate
women versus men. Evidence supports that this kind of research into sexual stimulation may
help to promote a nuclear family by aiding married couples to understand how to satisfy each
other within the perspective of monogamy. This lends to the question is it better for a husband to
be unfaithful to his wife with a prostitute and/ or another, compared to learning how to use a
vibrator and physical touch to comfort his wife? In my opinion, the latter is best.
Similarly, research into sexual identity has the propensity to help guide relationship choices to
try and advert entering ill-conceived ones that may subsequently result in unwarranted anguish.
Such examinations provide an additional understanding of theories such as conversion therapies.
Analyses of this caliber would provide knowledge that may be used to make more responsible
life choices. For instance, as it stands, there are no good evidence-based reports on how you can
make a gay man straight, and perhaps research into sexual identities can change that.
Undeniably, funding more sex research as well as the dissemination of results would ultimately
help even politicians by finding avenues for them to lead healthy sex lives and avoid being
blackmailed for their preferences. Helping to ease tension as policies that affect the nation is
made. Additionally, research into pedophilia may aid the understanding of how to successfully
impede pedophiles from committing initial offenses. Finally, if we are going to use science to
understand what it means to be human, then we need scientists who study sex, and having the
government be responsible for the funding takes the pressure off the public and allows for the
exploration of alternative avenues of sexual expression (Hankivsky, 2018)
Reference:
1.Waldron (2022). Biomedical Ethics: A Biblical Perspective. Kendall Hunt Publishing.
https://online.vitalsource.com/books/9798765700891
2.New King James Bible (NKJB). (2004). Thomas Nelson (Original work published 1982)
3.Christian Medical & Dental Associations (CMDA). (2018, April 18). Position Statements.
CMDA.org. https://cmda.org/policy-issues-home/position-statements/
4.Hankivsky, O., Springer, K. W., & Hunting, G. (2018). Beyond sex and gender difference
in funding and reporting of health research. Research integrity and peer review, 3, 6.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s41073-018-0050-6
