Lisa Essay Plan

Title: Discuss the legal, ethical, professional and communication issues that an imaging
professional will need to understand and apply when a child discloses that they are being
abused
Intro: Discuss what legal, ethical, professional and communication issues that will be
discussed throughout the essay and how they will be applied when a child discloses that
they are being abused.
1st paragraph:
Talk about what the normal circumstances around confidentiality. Which is normally to keep
confidentiality and we would need consent to break it. Look at all the laws, any ethics, any codes of
conduct and communication skills that relates to the fact that normally we need consent to breach
confidentiality
Respect for autonomy: Acknowledge that the decision to disclose confidential information ultimately
rests with the individual. Respect their autonomy and ensure they understand that they have the
right to give or withhold consent.
in situations where harm or abuse is suspected, the paramount concern is the welfare of the child.
In terms of communication skills, professionals need to have effective and empathetic

communication techniques when dealing with sensitive information. They should create a safe and
confidential environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their concerns or disclosures.
Active listening, non-judgmental attitudes, and empathy are essential in building trust and
encouraging open communication.
1. "Confidentiality and Mental Health" by Christopher Cordess and George Szmukler: This book
provides a comprehensive overview of the ethical, legal, and professional considerations surrounding
confidentiality in mental health settings.
2. "Ethics in Psychology and the Mental Health Professions: Standards and Cases" by Gerald P.
Koocher and Patricia Keith-Spiegel: This resource explores ethical dilemmas faced by psychologists
and mental health professionals, including issues related to confidentiality and informed consent.
3. "Confidentiality and Record Keeping in Counselling and Psychotherapy: Recording Confusion" by

Tim Bond: This book focuses on the challenges of maintaining confidentiality in counseling and
psychotherapy while also ensuring accurate record-keeping and accountability.
4. "A Guide to Confidentiality in Health and Social Care" by Andrew Charlesworth: This resource
provides an in-depth understanding of confidentiality and data protection issues in healthcare and
social care settings, including the need for consent in disclosure.
These books provide valuable insights and perspectives on the normal circumstances surrounding
confidentiality, the requirement for consent, and the exceptions that arise
"breaking confidentiality for safeguarding purposes."
When it comes to children, the duty to maintain confidentiality is typically high, as it is crucial to
protect their privacy and ensure their well-being. Professionals who work with children, such as
teachers, doctors, counselors, and social workers, are bound by ethical and legal obligations to
safeguard children's confidentiality.
However, it is important to note that professionals do not make arbitrary decisions to breach
confidentiality when there are suspicions. Instead, they typically follow established protocols and
guidelines set by their respective professions and organizations. These protocols often involve
consulting with supervisors or legal experts, gathering additional information if possible, and taking
into account the best interests of the child.
In summary, maintaining confidentiality is a fundamental principle across various professional

settings. When it comes to children, confidentiality is generally upheld, but there are circumstances
where the duty to protect the child's safety and well-being may require professionals to disclose
information without consent. These exceptions are carefully governed by ethical standards and legal
obligations, ensuring that privacy rights are balanced with the need to safeguard children from harm.
1. Active Listening: This skill is crucial when discussing the breach of confidentiality with the child and
their parents or guardians. Active listening involves fully paying attention, understanding and
empathizing with the concerns and questions raised by the child and their family. Active listening
helps build trust and ensures clear communication.
2. Empathy and Sensitivity: Imaging professionals need to approach the breach of confidentiality
with empathy and sensitivity, as it may involve discussing personal and sensitive matters. Being able
to put oneself in the child's and family's shoes can help facilitate open and honest communication,
addressing their concerns and fears with care.
3. Clear and Effective Communication: It is essential for imaging professionals to communicate clearly
and effectively to ensure that the child and their family fully understand the reasons for breaching
confidentiality. Clearly explaining the benefits and possible risks or consequences can help parents
make an informed decision regarding consent.
2nd paragraph:
Talk about in a safeguarding situation that it is not normal to breach confidentiality and children have
a right to be safe, also look at all the laws and any ethics, any codes of conduct and any
communication skills that might relate to the fact that children have to right to feel safe
3rd paragraph:
Discuss that as children have to right to be safe, the normal rules of getting consent do not apply.
Look at the laws, codes of conduct, ethics that relate to this, also discuss how breaching
confidentiality without consent is actually going against somebody’s autonomy and that is important
with Gillet competent children, and that normally they would also have to agree but in this
circumstance, we do not need their agreement,
4th Paragraph:
Then look at the verbal communication skills you need when a child discloses, research around open
and closed questions, non-verbal communication (get the child to keep talking), and the laws, ethics,
codes of conduct and communication skills that relate to this.
5th Paragraph:
Lastly discuss about report writing, and the laws, ethic, codes on conduct and communication skills
around that.
Document the communication process: Keep a record of the communication and consent process,
including any discussions, explanations, and cons
In cases where there are suspicions of abuse, neglect, or significant risk to a child's safety,
professionals may have a duty to breach confidentiality in order to protect the child from harm. This
duty is often referred to as the "duty to report" or "mandatory reporting." Laws vary by jurisdiction,
but in many places, professionals are legally required to report their suspicions to child protection
services or a designated authority.
Conclusion:
Intro:

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Title: Discuss the legal, ethical, professional and communication issues that an imaging

In terms of communication skills, professionals need to have effective and empathetic

3. "Confidentiality and Record Keeping in Counselling and Psychotherapy: Recording Confusion" by

"breaking confidentiality for safeguarding purposes."

In summary, maintaining confidentiality is a fundamental principle across various professional

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