Confidentiality should become one of the most important group norms, and it should be discussed openly, thoroughly and often among group members. What constitutes a breach of confidentiality should be clearly defined, and consequences for breaking confidentiality should be openly discussed. A common phrase used in group therapy is, "What's said in group stays in group."

During this week's session Melissa confronted Karen in the group because she heard that Karen has been talking about things other group members have shared in the group to their mutual friends. Unfortunately, when everyone heard the news, it was devastating to the group. It has cause a lot of anxiety in the group. There have been some very personal discussions that should not have been shared. Melissa eventually was honest about her mistake and asked for the group to forgive her for forgetting that "what's said in the group stays in the group."

Expalin what you feel is the best way to handle this situation, the group's feelings, Tina's breach of confidentiality and how would you re-emphasize the ethical principles upon which confidentiality is based: autonomy, fidelity, beneficence and nonmaleficence to all the group members.