Responding to messages of adolescents on the internet: Theoretical, practical, and ethical issues

This paper presents the policy and guidelines, which evolved over the last four years, for answering questions and giving counsel on an Internet site dedicated to sexuality and intimate relations of adolescents. The theoretical framework employed is that of non-directive counseling. Some ethical, legal, and practical issues are discussed. The ethical/legal issues are disclaimers, specific medical advice, dispensation of sexual advice to minors, and notification. The practical issues are the decision to publish an answer or not to, removing identifying information, providing referrals, and encouraging adult involvement. Several case examples are described in order to illustrate the application of the principles and guidelines.