Abstract

It is more difficult for clergy to personally cope with confidentiality than any other profession because of the complex relationships found within congregational settings and the blurred boundaries between clergy as counselors and clergy as leaders of congregations. This leads to difficult negotiations regarding confidentiality and openness between clergy and other congregants. It is especially difficult for married clergy who otherwise value candor in their spousal relationship. Guidelines for clergy regarding confidentiality include the presumption of confidentiality, the sharing of information with colleagues only for purposes of furthering the counseling and for professional enhancement. Clergy need to educate the congregation regarding clergy codes of conduct.