Making the cut...ethically: how barbers and hairdressers can safely respond to customer mental health crises
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Date
2025
Authors
Fraser, Lee
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education
Abstract
This project explores the ethical implications of barbers and hairdressers encountering their customers’ personal disclosures and mental health challenges. Customers may view their barbers and hairdressers as supportive spaces for discussing mental health, which can place these professionals in situations where they may lack the necessary ethical and mental health training to protect the well-being of themselves and their customers. While limited mental health discussion education exists for hairdressers and barbers, a review contained within this project indicates that it often fails to address ethical concerns that are germane to managing disclosures and discussions of personal mental health issues.
To explore the potential ethical considerations surrounding these interactions, a fictional case study was created to raise awareness among professionals in this field and promote education on these important topics. The project further examines the potential ethical implications of mental health discussions and offers recommendations based on existing literature on ethics in psychological services. It is hoped that the insights and recommendations derived from this project will inform future training programs for barbers and hairdressers, equipping them to engage with mental health concerns and their clientele in a more ethical and informed manner. A manuscript accompanies this project, included as an appendix, intended for publication in a barbering and hairdressing trade publication.
Description
Keywords
counselling , ethics , ethical decision making , competency , multiple relationships , dual relationships , confidentiality , burnout , haircare