CPRS Ethics & Legal Considerations in Public Relations 5

Question 1

Which scenario best exemplifies the ethical concept of 'independent judgment' as defined in the PRSA Code?

Accepted Answer

A practitioner refuses to issue communications they believe are false, even under client pressure

Answer

The PRSA Code's independence provision protects practitioners' right to exercise professional judgment and refuse to execute communications that compromise ethical standards.

Question 2

A PR practitioner creates a video news release (VNR) for a government agency without disclosing its government origin. This violates:

Accepted Answer

FCC rules requiring identification of the source of video news releases

Answer

FCC rules and the GAO have determined that undisclosed government-funded VNRs broadcast as news constitute covert propaganda, requiring source identification.

Question 3

When a PR practitioner simultaneously serves on a nonprofit board and manages PR for a company that contracts with that nonprofit, the primary ethical concern is:

Accepted Answer

A conflict of interest requiring disclosure to both parties

Answer

Holding dual roles where one entity benefits from decisions involving the other creates a conflict of interest that must be disclosed to all relevant parties under the PRSA Code.

Question 4

A company facing litigation wants its PR firm to issue a press release making unverified claims that undermine a plaintiff's credibility. The PR firm should:

Accepted Answer

Refuse to issue the release and counsel the client on factual, measured public statements

Answer

Issuing releases with unverified claims that disparage individuals can constitute defamation; practitioners must counsel clients toward factual communication and decline to participate in legally and ethically problematic tactics.

Question 5

Which of the following is a legitimate use of 'background' briefings with reporters according to PR ethics standards?

Accepted Answer

Offering factual context to help reporters accurately understand complex issues, with the source remaining unnamed

Answer

Background briefings are ethically appropriate when used to provide accurate, contextual information that helps reporters understand issues more completely, with the source identity protected as agreed.

(CPRS) Certified Public Relations Specialist Practice Test

(CPRS) Certified Public Relations Specialist Practice Test

CPRS Ethics & Legal Considerations in Public Relations 5