In the Ethical Decision Making Model, which step comes after defining the problem emotionally and intellectually?

• A. Consider the students' chronological and developmental levels
• B. Apply the ASCA Ethical Standards and the law
• C. Consider the setting, parental rights and minors' rights
• D. Apply the moral principles

Answer: (B)

Grounding the decision in professional guidelines and legal obligations comes next after you’ve defined the problem emotionally and intellectually. Applying the ASCA Ethical Standards and the law anchors your actions in established responsibilities, clarifying what is ethically permissible and legally required. This framework helps protect students’ rights, confidentiality, and appropriate professional duties, and it informs all subsequent steps in the decision-making process.

While developmental considerations, the school setting and rights, and applying moral principles are all important factors, they are analyzed within the structure set by the standards and law. Once those governing rules are identified, you can interpret them in light of the student’s development and context, and then work through the moral principles to determine the best action.