Which statement reflects the appropriate stance toward client autonomy in decision-making?

• A. Coerce decisions to ensure compliance.
• B. Respect autonomy and support joint decision-making rather than pressure or manipulation.
• C. Ignore client preferences.
• D. Make decisions for clients to reduce risk.

Answer: (B)

Autonomy in decision-making means honoring a client's right to choose and guiding them through options rather than directing or controlling their choices. A peer specialist supports joint decision-making by sharing information in clear terms, exploring the client’s values and goals, and co-planning a path the client has chosen and given consent to. This approach builds trust, respects dignity, and reflects recovery principles that emphasize empowerment and self-determination.

Coercing decisions to ensure compliance undermines a person’s agency and can damage the therapeutic relationship, which is why it’s not appropriate. Ignoring client preferences dismisses the person’s lived experience and erodes collaboration. Making decisions for clients to reduce risk is overly paternalistic; safety comes from thorough information, voluntary consent, and working together to implement the chosen plan.