What is the term for the argument supporting non-disclosure of unpleasant information to a patient?

Benevolent deception refers to the practice of withholding distressing or unpleasant information from a patient for their perceived benefit or to protect their well-being. The underlying philosophy is that revealing such information could cause unnecessary emotional harm or distress, affecting the patient's quality of life. This concept is rooted in ethical considerations regarding honesty and the patient's emotional health. It acknowledges the complexity of patient-provider relationships and the delicate balance between providing truthful information and maintaining a patient's well-being.

In medical ethics, while honesty (veracity) is typically held as a principle, there are scenarios where withholding information may be deemed appropriate to avoid causing harm. This is particularly relevant in cases where the information could lead to despair or anxiety without altering the treatment or outcome. Thus, benevolent deception is positioned as a rationale for non-disclosure in certain sensitive situations.