1. Maddie is an occupational therapist working at a clinic-based private practice. She has a regular client, a young boy named Michael who has two moms. Maddie often overhears the male manager of the practice, Evan, making sexual jokes about these women, about taking them home and turning them “straight.” What should Maddie do?
1.1. Stakeholders: Maddie Michael Michael's Moms Evan Owner of the practice Maddie's Coworkers The practice's clients
1.1.1. Core Values in this Dilemma
1.1.1.1. Equality- Maddie doesn't want Michael and his moms to be treated differently because of who they love.
1.1.1.2. Altruism- Maddie demonstrates concern for Michael and his moms, and is conflicted on how to make their situation better.
1.1.1.3. Justice- Maddie wants all of her clients to flourish without limitations, and feels Evan doesn't share the same concern.
1.1.1.4. Dignity- Maddie wants her clients to be treated with respect.
1.1.1.5. Prudence- In her situation, Maddie must make an ethical decision using her judgement and reasoning skills.
1.1.2. Ethical Principles In this Dilemma
1.1.2.1. Justice- promoting fairness in services
1.1.2.1.1. Related standard of conduct: K. With justice, any unethical acts should be reported to appropriate authorities.
1.1.2.2. Fidelity- treating everyone with respect and integrity
1.1.2.2.1. Related standards of conduct:
1.1.2.2.2. B: Maddie should address unethical or disruptive behavior that jeopardizes team effectiveness or the well being of others.
1.1.2.2.3. F. Maddie knows professionals should not sexually harass others.
1.1.2.2.4. G. Maddie knows Evan's comments are disrespectful and derogatory, and that they are not professional.
1.1.2.2.5. H. Maddie should try to facilitate collaborative actions to ensure quality care for all clients of the practice.
1.1.2.2.6. J. Maddie should use her conflict resolution skills to resolve conflicts inside the practice.
1.1.2.2.7. L. Maddie should only act in ways that positively affect the way the public views occupational therapy.
1.1.3. Courses of Action
1.1.3.1. Maddie should stay quiet.
1.1.3.1.1. Positives: -No effect on job
1.1.3.1.2. Negatives: -Risk losing the trust of the clients if they hear derogatory comments -Comments do not cease -Uncomfortable Workplace
1.1.3.2. She could talk to Evan directly about his comments.
1.1.3.2.1. Positives: -She is speaking up for her client - She is trying to communicate ethically
1.1.3.2.2. Negatives: -Her job could be affected because he is in a higher position than her -Evan could be passive aggressive towards her
1.1.3.3. She could talk to her coworkers about how Evan's comments affect them or if they notice the comments too.
1.1.3.3.1. Positives: -She is trying to facilitate communication in the workplace - She could find out more about the issue
1.1.3.3.2. Negatives: - Evan could find out she has been talking about him and be angry - The owner of the practice could also be angry that she is talking about the manager and didn't go to him - This doesn't really solve the problem
1.1.3.3.3. Negatives:
1.1.3.4. She could discuss Evan's comments with the owner of the practice.
1.1.3.4.1. Positives: -Comments might cease -Makes for a more comfortable work environment if they do -The choice is placed in the owner's hands instead of Maddie's
1.1.3.4.2. Negatives: -Evan could figure out who reported him to HR, and he could be passive aggressive towards her.
1.1.3.4.3. Maddie chooses this course of action because she believes it is the most ethical path. This way, she informs the manager what is going on and puts the responsibility in his hands. As the owner of the practice, hopefully he will understand how unethical the comments Evan was making were, and will talk to Evan so he stops. This will make for a more comfortable work environment and will ensure equal care for clients no matter their sexuality.