Journal of Education & Social Policy

Applying the Four Quadrant Model of Ethical Decision-Making to an HIV Disclosure Case Study in Lebanon
Stephen M. Young

Abstract
This paper evaluates the utility of applying the four quadrant model of ethical decision-making, consisting of medical indications, patient preferences, quality of life, and contextual features, to a nonconsensual HIV disclosure case study in Lebanon. The contextual features of this case include HIV disclosure policies, stigma of HIV, responsibilities of professionals, and the roles of the family and community which outline the specific challenges of this ethical dilemma. While the model provides an organized process of thinking through the multifaceted concerns surrounding nonconsensual HIV disclosure, the social worker in this case did not see a clear path forward and relied on the wisdom of her supervisor for direction. Thus, the model may not be appropriate cross-cultural social work practice. This paper highlights the challenges of employing such a tool in specific cultures across the global and indicates that there are continued hurtles for social workers who practice cross-culturally.

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