Which is true of the norms, values, and beliefs associated with ethical conduct in coaching?

The ICF Code of Ethics outlines explicit standards, but the underlying norms, values, and beliefs (e.g., integrity, respect, client autonomy) are often implicit, shaping ethical conduct beyond written rules. These are embedded in the ICF Definition of Coaching and competencies. Let’s evaluate:

A. They are often unspoken: Values like trust and empowerment are foundational to ICF’s approach (Competency 5: "Cultivates Trust and Safety") but aren’t always explicitly stated in every interaction, making this true.

B. They are consistent across organizations: While ICF provides a standard, norms and values vary across coaching bodies or cultures, so this is false.

C. They are a higher standard than laws: Ethics may exceed legal requirements (e.g., confidentiality beyond legal mandates), but this isn’t universally true and isn’t the best fit.

D. They are frequently hard to learn: ICF makes ethics accessible through training and the Code, so this is inaccurate.

Option A is true, reflecting the implicit nature of ethical norms in ICF coaching.