Previous Lesson

Topic 1: Recognizing Ethical Dilemmas in Peer Support

An ethical dilemma occurs when a peer support specialist encounters a situation where two or more ethical principles come into conflict. These dilemmas require careful thought and structured decision-making to ensure the best possible outcome.

Key Characteristics of Ethical Dilemmas:

  • There is no clear right or wrong answer—multiple ethical values may be at play.
  • The decision impacts the peer, the peer specialist, and possibly the recovery community.
  • The dilemma requires careful ethical reasoning rather than personal opinions or emotions.

Calls to Action Poll

Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Peer mentor training
Group facilitator training
Crisis responder training
Toolkits or educational resources
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Templates for operations (e.g., reports, outreach plans)
Apps for scheduling, communication, or service delivery
Centralized platforms or systems to manage services
Tech literacy and support for RCO staff/volunteers
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Public education materials about recovery
Anti-stigma messaging and campaigns
Community presentations or media outreach
Engagement with schools, employers, and faith-based organizations
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Transitional or supportive housing models
Second-chance hiring programs
Job training and resume support
Partnerships with local employers
Strongly disagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly agree
Volunteer recruitment and engagement
Matching professional skills (e.g., legal, marketing) with org needs
Platform or system to manage and track volunteer involvement
Training and orientation tools for volunteers