When David returns to speak with the girl on the bench, what does he start by explaining?

• A. He will keep what she tells him private unless there is a safety concern.
• B. He will keep everything confidential no matter what.
• C. He will not tell anyone and ask her to leave.
• D. He will call a parent immediately.

Answer: (A)

Confidentiality with limits is what this tests. He begins by telling her that what she shares will be kept private unless there is a safety concern. This approach preserves trust and encourages honest sharing, while also following ethical guidelines that require breaking confidentiality if there’s imminent risk of harm to herself or others, abuse, or similar safety issues. Stating the limit upfront helps her understand when information would be shared and why, rather than promising absolute secrecy. The other options undermine trust or safety: promising total confidentiality, calling a parent immediately in all cases, or telling her to leave would either oversimplify the situation or shut down the supportive conversation.