The moral obligation of counselors implies which of the following?

• A. To maximize client satisfaction
• B. To do what is appropriate
• C. To follow personal preferences
• D. To avoid all risk

Answer: (C)

The core idea is that a counselor’s actions must be guided by what is appropriate within professional and ethical standards. Decisions should protect client welfare, respect autonomy, and follow codes of ethics, legal requirements, and the specifics of each situation. Personal preferences have no bearing on professional judgment; they must be set aside in favor of what is ethically and professionally appropriate for the client.

Choosing to maximize client satisfaction isn’t sufficient on its own because influencing decisions solely to please the client can conflict with honesty, boundaries, or ethical guidelines. Avoiding all risk isn’t realistic or responsible, since some level of risk is inherent in counseling and must be managed ethically. Following personal preferences would undermine professional responsibility and standards. Therefore, doing what is appropriate best captures the counselor’s moral obligation.