Autonomy Vs Paternalism Essay

When it comes to confidentiality between people, the trust is sometimes broken which can be beneficial or have no benefit for the person(s) involved. The formal term for this is called paternalism which is the “override of a person’s actions or decision-making for his own good” (Vaughn). There are two different levels of this and they are classified as strong paternalism and weak paternalism. The more controversial of the two is the strong paternalism because it is the override of a person that has full autonomy and that can decide for his or herself. Weak paternalism is less controversial because it is usually involving someone that cannot fully make a good and reasonable decision based on their physical impairments and setbacks. Autonomy, being the person’s self-independence, is very important in the …show more content…
The categories the psychologist looks at range from behavioral, emotional, nutrition and dietary, sexual activity and their overall understanding of HIV. Before beginning any observations, each participant is required to sign a consent form which means that there is complete confidentiality between the psychologist. As the psychologist began his study, everything seemed to be going well. He was noticing things that were going to help him develop some information about HIV and could help others in the future. As the project continues, basic morality principles seem to be becoming a much more major role. The principles that are seeming to become apparent include autonomy, nonmaleficence, utility, and justice. These principles are the more obvious ones because the psychologist is trying to do what is right for the participant and not inflict any pain and he is also trying to get the most favorable outcome of the situation and lastly, he is trying to allow everyone the maintain their