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Describe a specific ethical dilemma based on Option 2.

Social workers can face ethical issues when they have multiple roles with clients. This happens when a social worker provides therapy to a client and simultaneously houses them (Kirst-Ashman & Hull, 2017). The social worker then faces ethical dilemmas when it comes to conflicts of interest, breaches of confidentiality, and exploitation which can all possibly harm the client’s trust and well-being.

Describe the ethical issues in the chosen option.

Social worker dual relationships have ethical concerns. Such professional boundaries come into play where there are conflicts of interest, client privacy, and prevention of abuse/harm. A struggle many social professionals endure is separating work from personal life which could affect decision-making and therapeutic collaboration (Reamer, 2014). This may cause clients to lose trust in their social worker and limit the effectiveness of treatment.

Identify specific values or ethical standards that apply.

Multiple relationships are addressed by social workers. It follows the moral guidelines from the NASW Code of Ethics. The dignity and worth of others’ well-being and freedoms are given priority to their friendships, relationships, or benefits. Integrity is maintained by requiring professional and ethical conduct which restricts boundaries. The client-social worker relationship is protected by preserving human relationships and keeping it that way.

Identify who is likely to be affected by the ethical dilemma.

The collision of two collaborations poses a moral problem that many grapple with. Client safety, confidentiality, and trust in social work are some of the biggest concerns when it comes to making a decision. By choosing one over the other, one could put a professional reputation on the line and face disciplinary action (National Association of Social Workers, 2021). If agencies or organizations can’t offer enough guidance or control to avoid these circumstances, they may be held accountable and experience legal or reputational consequences.

Describe potential courses of action.

Many relationships need to be planned out when it comes to social work. It is better to ask the folks who have been doing this longer or agencies about ethics before going on with it. A bigger conversation makes better decisions. Talking honestly with a coworker is also vital. Having a friendly argument can help sort out issues that will affect therapy, how well the client will do, and the relationship as a professional. Taking out an opposing viewpoint is never wrong either but another option from a different angle should be ready (National Association of Social Workers, 2022). Ending that relationship but having another plan is smart to look good in clients’ eyes too. Sometimes things are just best left alone when it comes to morals and the client’s wellbeing.

Examine reasons in favor of or opposed to the course of action.

The quickness of multiple partnership settlements is right because it keeps clients safe and preserves professional standards. A fast response aligns with a social worker’s ethical commitment to supplying client-centered treatment without conflict. Different opinions may suggest that a dual relationship could go a long way in terms of healing a client (National Association of Social Workers, 2022). This would be nice, but the potential risks of exploitation, damage, and ethical violations outweigh the benefits. That is why promoting an ethical approach is essential for the relationship between client and professional to thrive and for social work ethics to be sustained.

References

Kirst-Ashman, K. K., & Hull, G. H. (2017). Understanding generalist practice (8th ed.). Cengage Learning.

National Association of Social Workers. (2021). Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. Socialworkers.org; National Association of Social Workers. https://www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/Code-of-Ethics-English.aspx

National Association of Social Workers. (2022). Social workers’ ethical responsibilities as professionals. NASW – National Association of Social Workers. https://www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/Code-of-Ethics-English/Social-Workers-Ethical-Responsibilities-as-Professionals

Reamer, F. (2014). Eye on ethics: The evolution of social work ethics. Faculty Publications. https://digitalcommons.ric.edu/facultypublications/532/

PROFESSOR REPLY PLEASE ANSWER BACK Janella Melius

Hello JR, what mitigation strategies do social services agencies undertake to help decrease conflicts that may arise due to dual relationships?

Dr. Melius