When might an ethical dilemma be encountered?

An ethical dilemma often arises when multiple choices or actions are viable, as it requires individuals to consider the implications of their decisions and to weigh competing moral principles. In such situations, there may be no clear right or wrong answer, leading to conflict between ethical guidelines, personal values, or professional responsibilities.

This context is crucial because ethical dilemmas demand critical thinking and moral reasoning, often placing the individual in a position where they must choose between two or more acceptable options that may have differing consequences. In dental hygiene, for example, a practitioner might face a situation where they must balance patient autonomy with beneficence, perhaps when discussing treatment options that each have potential risks and benefits.

The other context options presented do not inherently lead to ethical dilemmas. Violating laws typically results in clear legal consequences rather than ethical ambiguity. Undisputed best practices are generally accepted as the "right" course of action without ethical conflict. Lastly, scenarios that require only technical skills might involve technical expertise but do not necessarily present moral considerations that characterize an ethical dilemma. Thus, it is the presence of valid alternatives that truly creates the potential for conflict and the need for ethical decision-making.