Jessa works for a wealth management firm. She discloses a client's confidential information publicly. This action is an example of a:
A) business ethics violation
B) low-trust relationship
C) conflict between personal and corporate values
D) failure to be transparent
E) rationalization of unprofessional practices
Answer (2)
The action described in the question refers to a situation where Jessa, who works for a wealth management firm, discloses a client's confidential information publicly. This situation most appropriately fits under option A: business ethics violation .
Here's a breakdown of why this is the correct choice:
Business Ethics Violation : Business ethics involves adhering to laws and regulations, as well as maintaining a standard of conduct that is deemed acceptable in the business environment. Disclosing a client's confidential information without their permission is a breach of business ethics. It violates the trust placed by clients in the wealth management firm and contravenes professional standards and possibly legal regulations concerning privacy and confidentiality.
Low-Trust Relationship (Option B): While disclosing confidential information can indeed lead to a low-trust relationship, the action described in the question itself is not the definition of a low-trust relationship. Instead, it's the result of such a violation.
Conflict between Personal and Corporate Values (Option C): This option suggests a mismatch in personal beliefs and the values upheld by the organization, which is not directly relevant to the action of disclosing confidential information.
Failure to be Transparent (Option D): Transparency usually involves being open and honest in communication. While disclosing information could be seen as a twisted form of 'transparency,' it is not an ethical form of transparency. Transparency should always respect privacy and confidentiality.
Rationalization of Unprofessional Practices (Option E): This option suggests justifying or explaining away unethical behavior. While Jessa's disclosure could involve rationalizing her actions, the primary issue remains the ethical violation perpetrated by the act itself.
In summary, Jessa's action is primarily a breach of business ethics concerning confidentiality, making option A the most accurate choice.
Jessa's action of disclosing a client's confidential information is an example of a business ethics violation. This breach undermines the trust inherent in the client-firm relationship and violates ethical and possibly legal standards. Therefore, option A is the most accurate answer.
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