Title: Moral Agency - Physiopedia
Headings: Moral Agency
Moral Agency
What are Morals
What is Moral Agency
What are Moral Agents
Physiotherapist as Moral Agents
Moral Agency in Action
References

Content: Moral competence refers to the capacity of an individual to "make decisions and judgments, which are moral based on internal principles and to act according to them." Moral competencies include reasoning, recognition, response, discernment, accountability, character, motivation, and leadership. With the appropriate normative framework and a supportive situational environment, moral competency gives rise to sound moral judgements. In contrast to this, moral distress is said to occur when an individual makes a moral judgement, but is unable to act upon it. Moral distress can result in emotional distress, frustration and anger. What are Moral Agents
A moral agent is any person or collective entity with the capacity to exercise moral agency. It is suggested that rational thought and deliberation are prerequisite skills for any agent. In this way, moral agents can discern between right and wrong and be held accountable for the consequences of their actions. Likewise, moral agents have the responsibility to anticipate and avoid causing unjust harm. Children and adults with certain intellectual or psychological disabilities may have little or no ability to function as moral agents.