Certified Peer Specialist Practice Exam

Which ethical principle is paramount for Certified Peer Specialists when offering support?

1. Prioritizing efficiency over empathy

2. Respect for the individual's autonomy and choices

3. Ensuring recovery is the same for everyone

4. Promoting group therapy over individual approaches

The correct answer is: Respect for the individual's autonomy and choices

The paramount ethical principle for Certified Peer Specialists when offering support is respect for the individual's autonomy and choices. This principle emphasizes the importance of recognizing and honoring each person's right to make their own decisions regarding their recovery journey. Peer specialists operate within a framework that encourages individuals to take an active role in their own recovery, understanding that each person's experience and needs are unique. Respecting autonomy fosters empowerment, allowing individuals to explore their options, express their preferences, and make informed choices about their treatment and supports. This approach not only helps build trust between the peer specialist and the individual but also acknowledges the importance of the individual's lived experiences and insights in the recovery process. Other options, such as prioritizing efficiency over empathy or promoting group therapy over individual approaches, do not align with the foundational principles of peer support. Recovery is inherently personal, and what works for one person may not work for another, highlighting the need for a respectful, individualized approach that honors personal choices and supports self-determination.