Question

Unacceptable counselor behavior on the Internet was identified by NCDA (1997) as follows:

Answer 1

The unacceptable counselor behavior identified by NCDA (1997) on the Internet includes breaches of confidentiality, providing misleading information, engaging in dual relationships, and offering services beyond one's competence.

Step-by-step explanation:

The National Career Development Association (NCDA) in 1997 delineated specific unacceptable behaviors for counselors operating on the Internet. Breaching confidentiality, a fundamental principle of counseling, was highlighted as one key misconduct. Providing misleading or inaccurate information, whether intentional or due to inadequate knowledge, was deemed unacceptable, emphasizing the need for counselors to offer accurate and reliable guidance online.

Additionally, engaging in dual relationships, where counselors blur professional boundaries with clients, and offering services outside their expertise were flagged as unacceptable. Dual relationships online could compromise objectivity and hinder the counseling process. Furthermore, providing services beyond one's competence could jeopardize the well-being of clients, emphasizing the importance of counselors recognizing their limitations and referring clients when necessary. NCDA's identified behaviors underscore the critical ethical considerations specific to online counseling, emphasizing the necessity for ethical conduct and adherence to professional standards in the digital realm.

Answer 2

The question pertains to the NCDA's identification of unacceptable counselor behavior on the Internet, which includes acts of electronic aggression. In 1997, NCDA emphasized the need for counselors to maintain professional and ethical standards online, a stance reinforced by CDC's recognition of the pervasive and harmful nature of such acts across digital communication channels.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding Unacceptable Counselor Behavior on the Internet

The National Career Development Association (NCDA) in 1997 highlighted the importance of professional conduct among counselors, especially regarding their presence on the Internet. With the steady rise of online platforms, the unacceptable counselor behavior includes activities that breach confidentiality, misrepresent professional credentials, or display unethical conduct towards clients. In the context of the Internet, electronic aggression can manifest in various forms, which is recognized by the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) as something that occurs through digital channels like email, social media, and text messaging.

Examples of unacceptable online behaviors for counselors include sharing confidential information publicly, claiming unearned titles, or partaking. The CDC notes that this type of aggression can happen anytime and anywhere, causing significant cognitive and emotional trauma, including reduced self-esteem, health problems, and even leading to substance abuse or self harm. In professional settings, such as in the case of an intern compromising law enforcement investigations on social media, the consequences of irresponsible Internet usage can extend to career damage and legal repercussions.

NCDA (1997) and later observations underline the critical need for ethical online conduct, especially for professionals like counselors who are entrusted with sensitive information. The permanence and reach of electronic communication make it imperative that counselors exercise utmost caution, ensuring their behavior on the Internet aligns with the ethical standards set by professional bodies such as NCDA.