According to the psychodynamic perspective on personality, which of the following is the key element that can destroy trustworthiness within a helping relationship?

• A. Betrayal of confidentiality
• B. Active listening
• C. Excessive empathy
• D. Unconditional positive regard

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the psychodynamic perspective on personality, which emphasizes unconscious processes, early childhood experiences, and internal conflicts as key influences on behavior and relationships.
2. Step 2: Recognize that in a helping relationship, trustworthiness is crucial for effective therapy or support, and it is built on the client's confidence that their personal information will be handled with care.
3. Step 3: Identify that 'betrayal of confidentiality' refers to breaking the promise to keep a client's information private, which directly undermines trust and can damage the therapeutic alliance.
4. Step 4: Compare the other options: 'Active listening' and 'unconditional positive regard' are positive therapeutic techniques that build trust, while 'excessive empathy' might be problematic but does not inherently destroy trustworthiness.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the key element that can destroy trustworthiness within a helping relationship, according to the psychodynamic perspective, is the 'betrayal of confidentiality' because it violates the fundamental ethical and relational foundation.