National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

Which ethical theory recognizes that the context of a situation can influence moral judgments?

1. Ethical absolutism

2. Ethical relativism

3. Clinical pragmatism

4. Dual relationships

The correct answer is: Ethical relativism

The correct choice is ethical relativism, which posits that moral judgments and values are not universally applicable but rather influenced by the specific context of a situation, including cultural, social, and personal factors. This theory suggests that what is considered right or wrong can vary depending on the circumstances and the individuals involved, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of morality that adapts to different scenarios. In contrast, ethical absolutism holds that there are fixed, universal moral principles that apply to all situations regardless of context, making it less flexible in addressing the complexities of real-life ethical dilemmas. Clinical pragmatism focuses on practical consequences and the effectiveness of actions rather than strictly moral considerations. Dual relationships refer to situations in which a professional has multiple roles with a client, which can complicate the ethical landscape but do not directly address the influence of context on moral judgments.