Which statement about discussing confidential topics with adolescents is correct?

Which statement about discussing confidential topics with adolescents is correct?

• A. Promise confidentiality in all cases
• B. Avoid discussing confidentiality
• C. Discuss only after parents are present
• D. Explain limits of confidentiality

Answer: (D)

Discussing confidentiality with adolescents centers on establishing trust while recognizing that some information cannot be kept secret. The best approach is to clearly explain the limits of confidentiality at the start: what can be kept private, what will be shared with parents or guardians, and the cases in which you must break confidentiality (for example, risk of harm to self or others, abuse, or legal reporting requirements). This sets realistic expectations and helps the teen feel safe to share concerns, while also guiding appropriate parental involvement and safeguarding. It also aligns with ethical and legal responsibilities in pediatric care. Promising confidentiality in all cases isn’t correct because there are important exceptions where disclosure is required to protect the patient or others. Simply avoiding or delaying the discussion misses a chance to build trust and leaves the teen unprepared for when information must be shared. Waiting to discuss confidentiality until a parent is present can hinder open disclosure of sensitive issues and undermine the therapeutic relationship.

Discussing confidentiality with adolescents centers on establishing trust while recognizing that some information cannot be kept secret. The best approach is to clearly explain the limits of confidentiality at the start: what can be kept private, what will be shared with parents or guardians, and the cases in which you must break confidentiality (for example, risk of harm to self or others, abuse, or legal reporting requirements). This sets realistic expectations and helps the teen feel safe to share concerns, while also guiding appropriate parental involvement and safeguarding. It also aligns with ethical and legal responsibilities in pediatric care.

Promising confidentiality in all cases isn’t correct because there are important exceptions where disclosure is required to protect the patient or others. Simply avoiding or delaying the discussion misses a chance to build trust and leaves the teen unprepared for when information must be shared. Waiting to discuss confidentiality until a parent is present can hinder open disclosure of sensitive issues and undermine the therapeutic relationship.