American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

Which ethical principle is not required for a massage therapist to follow?

1. Duty to cure

2. Responsible caring

3. Integrity in relationships

4. Responsibility to society

The correct answer is: Duty to cure

The principle of "Duty to cure" is not a required ethical guideline for massage therapists. While the responsibilities of massage therapists include providing care and improving their clients' conditions, the specific obligation to cure is more closely associated with medical professionals in fields where diagnosis and treatment of specific illnesses or conditions are part of their scope of practice. In massage therapy, the focus is often on holistic care, promoting well-being, and managing symptoms rather than curing specific diseases. This approach allows therapists to work within their professional boundaries, emphasizing supportive care and individualized treatment without the expectation of guaranteed outcomes associated with a "duty to cure." In contrast, the other principles mentioned—responsible caring, integrity in relationships, and responsibility to society—are fundamental to the practice of massage therapy. These principles emphasize the importance of ethical practice, establishing trust with clients, and being accountable to the community and profession, guiding massage therapists in their daily interactions and decision-making processes.