A dentist observes clear signs of abuse in a child but decides not to report it because he fears the parents' reaction. Which ethical principle is MOST directly violated?

Correct answer: B. Beneficence

• A. Veracity is truthfulness in communication with patients.
• B. Correct. BENEFICENCE is the positive duty to act for the patient's welfare and to promote their good. A child in danger requires affirmative protective action; withholding a mandated report because of personal discomfort is a failure of that duty. Mandatory reporting laws exist precisely because the duty to the child overrides the dentist's fear of confrontation.
• C. Autonomy concerns the patient's right to self-determination and informed choice — not the failure to act protectively.
• D. Justice concerns fair distribution of resources and non-discriminatory treatment.

Note: Some references key this to non-maleficence (allowing harm to continue). The ADA framework treats mandatory reporting as an affirmative duty to act for the patient's welfare = beneficence. Worth discussing as a group — know both arguments.