APPLICATIONS
Allan and Jamal

Allan and Jamal work together at a homeless shelter. They work for a program that combines research and services. The program provides assistance finding health care and jobs. Allan collects research information to find out whether the assistance makes a difference.

Mr. Smith is a shelter resident who really wants to have a job. Allan thinks that enrolling in the program would be good for Mr. Smith. Last month, Allan asked Mr. Smith three times to participate. Mr. Smith said no every time. When Mr. Smith’s cousin came to visit him, Allan told the cousin that Mr. Smith refused to participate. The cousin convinced Mr. Smith to participate.

Jamal saw what happened. He knows that Allan just wanted to help, but doesn't think that Allan acted ethically.

What could Jamal say to Allan to explain what went wrong?

First think about what Jamal could say to Allan.

Then click here for hints and ideas.

Hints:

Jamal pressured Mr. Smith to participate.
Mr. Smith’s decision not to participate is private. It is not OK to pressure him to change his mind.
(Click here to review.)

Jamal violated Mr. Smith’s confidentiality.
It is not OK to tell other people about Mr. Smith’s decision. Jamal did not respect Mr. Smith’s right to decide for himself who knows about his decision.
(Click here to review.)

Sometimes trying to help is not OK. Jamal needs to respect Mr. Smith’s right to say no.

Also, because the program is supposed to find out whether the special help works, nobody knows whether Mr. Smith will be better off if he signs up.

Back to Top