Discussion 2: Dual Role Relationships Consider This Scenario

Discussion 2 Dual Role Relationshipsconsider This Scenarioyou Receiv

Considering the scenario where a social worker receives a hotline call from a 15-year-old boy struggling with depression and addiction, who is also the son of a friend, presents a complex ethical dilemma involving dual-role relationships. The core issue revolves around whether to provide immediate assistance or to make an appropriate referral, weighing the potential for boundary violations and ethical considerations as outlined by the NASW Code of Ethics.

Dual-role relationships occur when a professional assumes multiple roles with a client, potentially impairing objectivity and professional judgment, and risking harm to the client through boundary violations (NASW, 2021). In this scenario, the social worker faces several options: to proceed with providing services, to refer the client to another clinic, to make the client wait until the coworker returns, or to involve the parents. Each option carries significant ethical implications.

Continuing to work with the client in this context could lead to conflicts of interest, compromised confidentiality, and blurred boundaries due to the personal connection with the child's parent. The social worker's dual relationship as both a service provider and a friend-of-the-family introduces risks of favoritism, impaired objectivity, and potential exploitation or harm (Couch & Theriot, 2017). The NASW Code emphasizes the importance of boundaries, asserting that social workers should avoid dual relationships that could impair competence, objectivity, or effectiveness (NASW, 2021).

On the other hand, in rural or resource-limited areas, the lack of available services complicates these ethical considerations. Referring the client to a distant clinic may not be feasible or in the client's best interest, especially if access challenges exacerbate his difficulties (Lopez et al., 2019). In such cases, the social worker must weigh the immediate need for assistance against the ethical risks, prioritizing the client's safety and well-being while adhering to professional standards.

In responding to the crisis, an ethically sound approach would involve thorough assessment and transparent communication with the client. The social worker could explain the importance of maintaining professional boundaries, acknowledge the potential conflict of interest, and explore options such as consulting with a supervisor or colleague for guidance. While making the referral is generally recommended, prioritizing the client's safety may necessitate providing limited services in this instance, coupled with arrangements to ensure follow-up care and continued support (Kirst-Ashman & Hull, 2020).

Engaging the client's parents with his consent should be considered carefully, balancing confidentiality, the adolescent's right to privacy, and the necessity of parental involvement in mental health treatment. Given that the client is a minor, involving his parents may be necessary for his safety, but this must be done in accordance with legal and ethical guidelines (Reamer, 2018). The social worker should document all decisions and rationale, consulting with supervisors to ensure that actions align with ethical standards and best practices.

Addressing potential dual roles explicitly and proactively can mitigate risks. For example, the social worker might disclose the dual relationship to all involved parties, seek supervision, and establish clear boundaries to prevent conflicts. When ethically justified, some dual relationships are acceptable if they do not impair professional judgment or harm the client, such as in small communities where alternative resources are unavailable (NADSW, 2017). However, the primary obligation remains to protect the client's interests and to avoid exploitation or harm.

In conclusion, the social worker's response should prioritize the client's immediate safety while adhering to ethical standards concerning boundaries and dual relationships. Transparent decision-making, consulting with supervisors, and considering local resource limitations are essential steps. While dual roles are often problematic, in certain contexts, they may be unavoidable, demanding heightened awareness and ethical vigilance to ensure client welfare.

References

• Couch, M. & Theriot, C. (2017). Ethical Dilemmas in Social Work: Dual Relationships and Boundary Issues. Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics, 14(2), 59-70.
• Kirst-Ashman, K. K., & Hull, G. H. (2020). Empowerment Series: Generalist Practice with Families and Small Groups (8th ed.). Cengage Learning.
• Lopez, J., Clarke, A., & Thomas, M. (2019). Ethical Challenges in Rural Mental Health Care. Journal of Rural Mental Health, 43(3), 147-155.
• NASW. (2021). Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. National Association of Social Workers.
• Reamer, F. (2018). Ethical Standards in Social Work: A Review of the NASW Code of Ethics. Social Work, 63(4), 399-406.
• NADSW. (2017). Ethical Dilemmas and Dual Relationships. National Association of Social Workers.