A middle school counselor regularly conducts small groups to address emotionally charged topics such as divorce and abuse. At the beginning of such a group, which of the following steps should the counselor take first to help ensure that students respect the confidentiality of information shared during their sessions?

The first step a counselor should take to ensure that students respect confidentiality in group discussions is to explain that, unlike individual counseling sessions, confidentiality cannot be guaranteed during group discussions. This is crucial because it sets realistic expectations about privacy in a group setting where multiple individuals are present, and information shared can potentially be disclosed by others.

By acknowledging the difference in confidentiality between individual and group counseling, the counselor promotes an understanding of the nature of group dynamics, where multiple perspectives can affect what is considered private. It encourages students to think carefully about what they choose to share, knowing that their peers are also present and may hear their personal information. This approach fosters a sense of responsibility toward maintaining confidentiality within the group while also ensuring that students are aware of the potential for information sharing outside the group.

This foundational step empowers students to create a respectful environment and opens the door for a deeper discussion about the importance of confidentiality, trust, and mutual respect within the group.