Praxis SLP Licensure Exam

In a group setting for cognitive-communication deficits, an SLP's decision to accommodate most members is an example of which ethical principle?

1. Beneficence

2. Non-maleficence

3. Utilitarianism

4. Autonomy

The correct answer is: Utilitarianism

The decision to accommodate most members within a group setting for cognitive-communication deficits aligns well with the ethical principle of utilitarianism. This principle emphasizes the importance of maximizing overall benefit and well-being for the greatest number of individuals. In the context of a group therapy session, an SLP prioritizing accommodations for the majority means that efforts are being made to create an environment that serves the collective needs of the group, thereby enhancing the therapeutic experience for most participants. Utilitarianism guides practitioners to consider the outcomes of their actions and aim for the greatest good. By focusing on accommodations that benefit most members, the SLP is acting in a way that reflects this ethical viewpoint, promoting an inclusive and supportive environment that addresses the cognitive-communication needs of the group as a whole, while also optimizing therapeutic effectiveness. In contrast, the other options represent different ethical principles that may not directly justify accommodating the majority. Beneficence pertains to actions that promote the well-being of patients, non-maleficence is focused on avoiding harm, and autonomy emphasizes the right of individuals to make their own choices. While these principles are essential in practice, they do not encapsulate the essence of prioritizing the needs of the group as a whole in the way that utilitarianism does