Counselors who work with children and adolescents often need to balance their clients' or students' rights, their own views of moral and ethical behavior, and the demands of ethical codes and state laws.

Vignette 2: A 17-year-old girl reveals she is four months pregnant and is terrified to tell her parents or the father of the childshe believes they will force her to keep the baby. The girl admits she has already contacted a couple she found on the Internet to discuss placing the baby for adoption when it is born. She wants your help with her mood as she has been very sad and depressed.

Now, answer these questions about your chosen vignette:

• Is there anything in this vignette that is illegal? Cite Texas state law.
• Is there anything in this vignette that is unethical? Cite the relevant codes from the 2014 ACA Code of Ethics[PDF] or the ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors.
• Is there anything in this vignette that conflicts with your personal beliefs? If so, discuss strategies to help you maintain your professional role and objectivity.