Scriptwriter Ethics Quiz

While writing an article about a recent community event, Aarav faces a choice. Which of the following best describes his ethical responsibility?

• Dramatize events as much as possible, regardless of accuracy.

• Prioritize narrative needs over factual integrity.

• Strive for accuracy and fairness while balancing dramatization.

• Only use fictional events to avoid controversy.

Lily is writing a story that features a community she is not familiar with. Which action best supports authentic representation?

• Rely on personal assumptions when writing about unfamiliar communities.

• Consult or collaborate with people from the community being portrayed.

• Use common stereotypes for clarity.

• Avoid including diverse characters altogether.

Kiara is writing a script about a real person. Which of these actions shows she is respecting her subject?

• Ignoring the privacy of non-public figures.

• Dramatizing traumatic events without consent.

• Obtaining consent when portraying real people.

• Fabricating controversial details to attract attention.

Jacob is inspired by a script he read and wants to use some of its ideas in his own work. Which practice upholds creative integrity?

• Borrowing ideas freely without credit.

• Plagiarizing other writers’ scripts.

• Giving proper credit for inspiration or adaptations.

• Reusing scripts without telling collaborators.

Rosie is writing a script for a new TV show. Why should she consider the social impact of her story?

• Stories rarely affect public attitudes.

• Stories can influence cultural narratives and reinforce harmful biases.

Charlie is writing a story. Which is an example of fair treatment of characters?

• Using shocking content purely for shock value.

• Creating one-dimensional stereotypes.

• Writing morally complex, nuanced characters.

• Glamorizing harmful behavior to gain views.

Amelia is writing a novel that includes themes of trauma. What is an ethical approach she should take when addressing these sensitive topics?

• Use them carelessly for dramatic effect.

• Exploit them to shock audiences.

• Handle them thoughtfully, avoiding gratuitous depiction.

• Avoid telling any stories with serious themes.

Sophie is working on a confidential film project. Which of the following actions demonstrates a professional ethical obligation?

• Misrepresent the script’s origin when pitching.

• Respect NDAs and maintain confidentiality.

• Claim sole authorship for a team effort.

• Leak confidential project details to the press.

Emily is writing a script for a short film that includes scenes depicting trauma. Why might Emily include trigger warnings or content notices at the beginning of her script?

• To spoil the story for audiences.

• To signal sensitive content and respect audience wellbeing.

• Because it’s legally required in every country.

• To discourage people from watching the film.

Thomas is writing a script for a new TV show. How can he promote equity in his storytelling?

• Avoid underrepresented perspectives.

• Use token characters without depth.

• Prioritize inclusive stories and diverse voices.

• Stereotype marginalized groups for dramatic effect.