Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of the value-neutral orientation in recent counseling theory. The study began with an examination of some of the cultural and historical roots of value neutrality, followed by a survey of its influence on the literature of the helping professions and related disciplines. The theoretical drawbacks and possible ramifications of value neutrality were examined. The study concluded by offering a theoretical alternative to a value neutral orientation, followed by suggested means by which counselors, especially those involved in counselor training and supervision, might prevent a nonjudgmental orientation from becoming a value-neutral bias