ASCA confidentiality should be explained in language appropriate to the student’s age and ability to perceive; confidentiality is protected unless there is harm risk.

ASCA confidentiality should be explained in language appropriate to the student’s age and ability to perceive; confidentiality is protected unless there is harm risk.

• A. Needs assessment
• B. General rule of confidentiality
• C. Program evaluation
• D. Accountability studies

Answer: (B)

Confidentiality in school counseling is the default rule: what a student shares is kept private and only disclosed with consent or when there is a risk of harm. ASCA emphasizes explaining this to students in language they can understand, so they know when information might be shared. The key exception is when there is risk of harm to the student or others; in those cases, disclosure is allowed or required to protect safety. This makes the general rule of confidentiality the best choice because it describes the overall standard governing how information is handled. The other options refer to different types of data collection or program assessment and don’t address how confidentiality is managed.

Confidentiality in school counseling is the default rule: what a student shares is kept private and only disclosed with consent or when there is a risk of harm. ASCA emphasizes explaining this to students in language they can understand, so they know when information might be shared. The key exception is when there is risk of harm to the student or others; in those cases, disclosure is allowed or required to protect safety. This makes the general rule of confidentiality the best choice because it describes the overall standard governing how information is handled. The other options refer to different types of data collection or program assessment and don’t address how confidentiality is managed.