California Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) Law and Ethics exam

What should social workers do if they discover they are seeing different members of the same couple for individual therapy?

1. No action is necessary since licensed health professionals may consult for purpose of diagnosis and treatment without a release

2. Stop discussion and obtain releases

3. Stop discussion and not talk about these clients again

4. There are no legal or ethical guidelines requiring social workers in such situations to do anything

The correct answer is: Stop discussion and not talk about these clients again

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of ethical boundaries and confidentiality in social work practice. When a social worker discovers they are seeing different members of the same couple for individual therapy, it is crucial to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of each client's session. Stopping discussion about the clients ensures that the social worker does not unintentionally breach confidentiality or mix the therapeutic contexts of each individual. In therapeutic settings, discussions of one client should not involve another client when they are part of the same couple, primarily to protect the privacy and trust established in the therapeutic relationship. Continuing to discuss or bring up clients in sessions risks mixing personal and therapeutic details that could be detrimental to their treatment. This action underscores a commitment to ethical standards which prioritize the welfare and privacy of each client. Other options, while touching upon consultation and releases, do not address the immediate need to avoid discussing the clients' situations. Not addressing the potential conflict or the implications of dual relationships can lead to ethical dilemmas, which is why ceasing discussion maintains the necessary professional boundaries.