Test Your Knowledge On Social Work Ethics!

The National Association of Social Work (NASW) is a well-known and respected organization in the field of social work. They are responsible for developing and maintaining the code of ethics that professional social workers are expected to adhere to. This code of ethics provides guidelines and standards for ethical practice, ensuring that social workers uphold the values of the profession and prioritize the well-being of their clients. Therefore, it is true that the NASW is the source for the code of ethics for professional social workers.

Professional boundaries apply regardless of whether there is a dual relationship or not. Dual relationships occur when a professional has a personal or social relationship with a client outside of their professional role. While dual relationships can present additional challenges in maintaining professional boundaries, it is important for professionals to establish and maintain boundaries with all clients to ensure ethical and effective practice. Therefore, the statement that professional boundaries only apply when there is a dual relationship is false.

Maintaining professional boundaries is primarily the responsibility of the social worker. They are trained professionals who are expected to establish and maintain appropriate boundaries with their clients to ensure ethical and effective practice. While clients may also have a role in maintaining boundaries, the ultimate responsibility lies with the social worker to establish and enforce these boundaries in order to protect the well-being and best interests of the client.

Transference and counter-transference refer to the unconscious transfer of emotions, thoughts, and feelings between a client and a worker in a therapeutic relationship. This phenomenon occurs when the client projects their unresolved issues onto the worker, and the worker may also experience their own emotional reactions towards the client based on their own past experiences. It is an important concept in therapy as it can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of the therapeutic relationship and the underlying issues being addressed.

When a worker has a conflict of interest or a dual relationship with a client, they need to inform their supervisor regardless of whether a problem occurs or not. This is because such conflicts can potentially compromise the worker's objectivity and impartiality in serving the client's best interests. By informing their supervisor, they can ensure transparency and seek guidance on how to navigate the situation professionally and ethically.

Social workers should be well educated regarding the use of social networking sites because these platforms can have a significant impact on their professional practice. By being knowledgeable about social networking sites, social workers can understand the potential benefits and risks associated with using these platforms in their work. They can also develop strategies for maintaining professional boundaries, protecting client confidentiality, and using social media ethically. Being well educated about social networking sites allows social workers to make informed decisions about how to effectively and responsibly use these platforms to support their clients and enhance their practice.

The correct answer is the worker. Maintaining professional boundaries is the responsibility of the worker because they are the ones who have direct contact with the clients and are in a position of power and influence. It is important for the worker to establish and maintain appropriate boundaries to ensure the safety, well-being, and professional relationship with the client. This includes maintaining confidentiality, avoiding dual relationships, and setting clear boundaries around personal and professional interactions. The supervisor at the agency also plays a role in providing guidance and support to the worker in maintaining these boundaries, but ultimately it is the worker's responsibility.

Self-disclosure can be appropriate in a professional setting depending on the context and purpose. Sharing personal experiences or information can help build trust, establish rapport, and create a supportive environment. However, it is important to use discretion and consider the potential impact on professional relationships and boundaries. Therefore, the statement that it is never appropriate to use self-disclosure in a professional setting is false.

All of the above options represent common ethical dilemmas in different contexts. Running into clients in public can create a dilemma for professionals who may have to balance their personal and professional boundaries. Social media boundaries with clients can be challenging to establish and maintain, as professionals need to navigate the line between being accessible and maintaining professional boundaries. The commission of illegal acts is a clear ethical dilemma that professionals may face when they are confronted with situations where they are asked to engage in illegal activities.

Smart work is not specifically mentioned as a vital part of social work ethics. While it may be beneficial and efficient to incorporate smart work practices into social work, it is not a requirement or a fundamental aspect of social work ethics.