Dr. Preemie is conducting a research study of the prevalence and correlates of drug use in college students. Because of the sensitive nature of the research topic, Dr. Preemie promises her participants confidentiality. Each college student who participates completes a set of surveys and an interview about his or her lifestyle and drug use habits. One participant, Carrie, reveals that she engages in moderate to heavy drug use (i.e., drinks two to four alcoholic beverages each day, and smokes marijuana several times per week). During the interview, Carrie mentions that she's feeling nauseous. Concerned, Dr. Preemie asks, "Do you want to stop the interview and go to the campus medical center?" "No," Carrie replies, "It's just morning sickness. I'm pregnant." "Oh," says Dr. Preemie, who nods,

Question

and continues with the interview.Afterward, in her office, Dr. Preemie is torn and wonders to herself, "I'm worried about Carrie. Drugs and alcohol disrupt prenatal development, but I promised confidentiality. I can't tell anyone about this! Should I say something to Carrie? I'm supposed to be nonjudgmental! Intervening might keep other students from participating in my research, for fear that I'd break my promises. I don't know what to do."How might your response change if Carrie were smoking cigarettes rather than using alcohol and drugs? What are the effects of smoking on prenatal development?

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Suggested Answer: Dr. Preemie does have a responsibility to inform Carrie of the effects of smoking on the developing fetus, which include reducing the supply of oxygen and nutrients, plus increasing the risks of premature delivery, low birth rate, and sudden infant death syndrome.