From the perspective of principle ethics, what action does a counselor take when notifying a client's family member about a violent act?

When considering principle ethics, the focus is on actions taken to prevent harm while balancing the rights and autonomy of clients. In the scenario where a counselor chooses to notify a client’s family member about a violent act, the action is guided primarily by the ethical obligation to safeguard both the client and potential victims of the violent behavior.

By notifying a family member, the counselor is prioritizing the principle of non-maleficence, which involves taking steps to prevent harm from occurring. This action may be seen as a necessary measure to mitigate imminent risks of violence and protect others who may be affected. In this context, the counselor recognizes that client autonomy must sometimes be weighed against the potential for harm, thus leading to the choice to disclose information to relevant parties.

The other options do not align with this principle. Promoting client engagement and supporting family dynamics may be important, but they do not directly address the immediate need to prevent harm. Encouraging independence in decision-making, while a valuable aspect of counseling, may not be feasible or appropriate when there's a serious threat of violence involved. The counselor's primary responsibility in such scenarios is to act in ways that prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals involved, which justifies the decision to sacrifice a degree of client