When is it appropriate to break confidentiality?

Breaking confidentiality is considered appropriate when there is a genuine concern for potential harm to oneself or others. This principle is rooted in ethical standards that prioritize safety and well-being over the strict adherence to confidentiality. If an individual possesses information that suggests someone may be at risk of harm—whether to themselves or others—it is considered a moral obligation to disclose that information in order to prevent such harm.

This situation transcends the usual expectations of confidentiality, emphasizing the importance of protecting individuals from dangerous situations, such as threats of violence, suicidal ideation, or abuse. In these cases, the ethical principle of beneficence—acting in the best interest of others—takes precedence over confidentiality.

Maintaining confidentiality becomes ethically questionable if doing so may lead to adverse outcomes for a person’s physical or psychological safety. Thus, the rationale for breaching confidentiality in these situations is to prevent greater harm, showcasing a commitment to ethical responsibility and the well-being of individuals.