What is the term for the state of being responsible and accountable for one's actions?

The correct term for the state of being responsible and accountable for one's actions is "accountability." Accountability refers to the expectation that individuals will take ownership of their actions and decisions, recognizing the impact these have on others and the consequences that may follow. It encompasses the idea that individuals are answerable for their behavior and are expected to justify their actions when necessary.

In the context of professional settings, such as healthcare or caregiving, accountability is crucial because it fosters trust between caregivers and those they serve. It ensures that caregivers uphold ethical standards and provide quality care, as they must answer for their treatment decisions and interactions with clients.

While responsibility is closely related, it primarily denotes the obligation to perform tasks or duties. Integrity, on the other hand, refers to adherence to moral and ethical principles, and dependency signifies reliance on someone or something else. Therefore, while these terms may share some similarities, accountability specifically highlights the requirement to be answerable for one's conduct.