Refraining from engaging in behaviors that cause harm falls under which ethical principle?

The principle that involves refraining from behaviors that cause harm is known as non-maleficence. This ethical principle focuses on the obligation of healthcare providers and professionals to avoid causing harm to patients or clients. It emphasizes the importance of being cautious and preventing any actions that could negatively affect an individual's well-being or mental health.

In practice, non-maleficence requires a thorough assessment of risks and benefits associated with any intervention or treatment. Professionals in behavioral health must carefully consider their actions and the potential consequences they may have on individuals' lives. This principle serves as a foundational guideline in case management, ensuring that clients receive support and services without facing additional harm.

While other principles like beneficence focus on promoting good and improving wellbeing, and justice emphasizes fairness and equality in treatment, non-maleficence specifically addresses the prevention of harm, making it the correct answer in this context. Likewise, accountability pertains to responsibility and adherence to standards, but it does not directly relate to the avoidance of harm as non-maleficence does.