Value conflicts occur when
A. Personal values are different from the values of the profession
B. You must choose between two contradictory ethical principles
C. Your behavior goes against your values
D. Your client puts you in a difficult position
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Personal values are different from the values of the profession.
A value conflict occurs when an individual’s personal values clash with the values or expectations of a profession or a particular situation. In the context of healthcare or nursing, this type of conflict can arise when the personal beliefs of a nurse or healthcare provider do not align with the professional ethics, regulations, or norms of the healthcare system.
For example, a nurse might have personal beliefs about certain medical treatments, such as those related to end-of-life care or reproductive health, but the profession may require them to provide care that conflicts with these beliefs. In such cases, the nurse may experience a value conflict because the core values of the profession, such as patient autonomy and non-maleficence (do no harm), might not align with the personal moral stance of the nurse.
Value conflicts can lead to stress and ethical dilemmas, especially when the individual feels obligated to act in ways that do not resonate with their personal convictions. It can also affect decision-making and the quality of care provided. Addressing these conflicts may involve seeking guidance from supervisors or ethics committees, or finding ways to reconcile the personal and professional values in a respectful and ethical manner.
While option B (choosing between two contradictory ethical principles) and C (behavior going against personal values) may seem similar, these situations are better characterized as ethical dilemmas or moral distress rather than value conflicts. Option D, where a client puts you in a difficult position, can lead to ethical challenges, but it does not necessarily involve a conflict between personal and professional values.