Ethical dilemmas in psychotherapy with older adults: A grounded theory analysis. Issue 2 (17th February 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lederman, Shai; Shefler, Gaby
• Is Part Of: Ethics & behavior. Volume 33:Issue 2(2023)
• Page Start: 101
• Page End: 114
• Publication Date: 2023-02-17
• Subjects: Psychotherapy with older adults -- ethics -- autonomy -- confidentiality -- ageism; Ethics -- Periodicals; 170.5
• DOI: 10.1080/10508422.2022.2050726
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1050-8422

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study explores how therapists deal with ethical dilemmas in psychotherapy with older adults. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 therapists and analyzed using grounded theory methodology. Findings clustered around three themes: (i) respecting autonomy when interacting with family of vulnerable and dependent older patients; (ii) prioritizing respecting autonomy in risk situations and in suspected financial abuse without impaired judgment; and (iii) prioritizing protecting the patient in risk situations of patients with dementia and of suspected physical abuse or neglect. These findings highlight several important issues regarding the management of ethical dilemmas in psychotherapy with vulnerable and dependent older adults.