Here are a few communication situations that raise ethical issues. Consider each of these five questions that others might ask of you. For each question there are extenuating circumstances that may militate against your responding fully or even truthfully. Consider each question and the mitigating circumstances (these are noted under the “Thoughts” you’re thinking as you consider your possible answer). How do you respond?

Question: [A friend asks your opinion] How do I look?
Thought: You look terrible but I don't want to hurt your feelings.

Question: [A romantic partner asks] Do you love me?
Thought: You don't want to commit yourself but you don't want to end the relationship either. You want to allow the relationship to progress further before making any commitment.

Question: [An interviewer asks] You seem a bit old for this type of job. How old are you?
Thought: I am old for this job but I need it anyway. I don't want to turn the interviewer off because I really need this job. Yet, I don't want to reveal my age either.

Question: [A parent asks] Did my son (15 years old) tell you he was contemplating suicide? OR Is my daughter (22 years old) taking drugs?
Thought: Yes, but I promised I wouldn't tell anyone.

Question: [A potential romantic partner asks] What's your HIV status?
Thought: I've never been tested, but now is not the time to talk about this. I'll practice safe-sex so as not to endanger my partner.