Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

What term describes the addiction professional's non harmful role in treatment?

1. Non malfeasance

2. Beneficence

3. Non maliciousness

4. Harmlessness

The correct answer is: Non malfeasance

The term that describes the addiction professional's non-harmful role in treatment is non-malfeasance. In the context of healthcare and counseling, non-malfeasance refers to the ethical principle of "do no harm." This principle emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the actions and interventions of the professional do not inflict any harm on the client. In addiction treatment, non-malfeasance is critical because professionals are responsible for creating a safe environment and supporting the recovery process without causing additional physical, emotional, or psychological distress to the client. This principle guides professionals in evaluating their practices and interventions, ensuring they prioritize the well-being of those they serve. While the other terms may relate to helping principles in treatment, they do not specifically convey the concept of avoiding harm in the same way that non-malfeasance does. Beneficence, for instance, refers to the obligation to act in the best interest of the client, focusing on positive actions to promote good, rather than specifically addressing the avoidance of harm. Non-maliciousness and harmlessness, while they imply a lack of intent to cause harm, do not carry the same ethical weight or recognition in the professional context as non-malfeasance does.