Which of the following situations obligates counselors to report, despite potential ethical complaints?

Reporting cases of suspected child abuse is a significant ethical and legal obligation for counselors. In many jurisdictions, counselors are considered mandated reporters, which means they are legally required to report any suspicions of child abuse to the appropriate authorities. This obligation stems from the ethical responsibility to protect vulnerable populations, especially children who may not have the capacity to advocate for their own safety.

When counselors suspect child abuse, they are prioritizing the safety and well-being of the child, recognizing that failure to report could contribute to ongoing harm. While there may be concerns about ethical complaints that arise from such reports, the duty to report suspected child abuse overrides these concerns, as the primary goal is to safeguard the child. Hence, this situation emphasizes the counselor's commitment to ethical practice, legal compliance, and the protection of those who are most vulnerable.

Other options presented, while important ethical and professional considerations, do not carry the same legal obligation to report. Informed consent issues, incompetency of a colleague, and client confidentiality breaches typically involve processes of resolution, consultation, or internal reporting rather than immediate external reporting to authorities.