Which option reflects an ethical consideration in performance appraisal practices?

• A. Confidentiality
• B. Fairness
• C. Non-discrimination
• D. Public disclosure of assessments

Answer: (D)

Ethical performance appraisal centers on protecting individuals’ privacy while ensuring evaluations are fair and non-discriminatory. Confidentiality means keeping rating details, feedback, and development plans limited to those who need to know, so sensitive information isn’t exposed unnecessarily. Fairness requires applying consistent standards, avoiding favoritism or arbitrary judgments, and giving employees a reasonable opportunity to respond. Non-discrimination ensures assessments are based on job-related performance criteria and not on irrelevant personal characteristics. Public disclosure of assessments would breach confidentiality, increase the risk of bias and retaliation, and undermine trust in the appraisal process, so it does not align with ethical practice.