Scenario 1
You are in the first weeks of your internship, and you hear the employees discussing a client in the hallway. They are using terms like “junkie,” “loser,” and “hopeless.” How do you handle this situation?
Scenario 2
You are terminating with a client, and the client asks if they can take a picture of the two of you together to post on their social media page. They want to say how great you were. What are some considerations before responding to their request?
Scenario 3
You are doing an intake on a new client, and they tell you that they recognize you from your church. You do not know “specifically” who they are—but they do seem familiar. How do you respond to this?
BY DAY 3
•Within the context of your agency, explain what your first choice of action would be based on the scenario you chose, and explain why you made that choice. Support your answer using the NASW Code of Ethics and your agency policy when applicable.
DAiscussing a client in the hallway
Full Answer Section
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- Client Consent: Obtain explicit, informed consent from the client, including how the photo will be used and who will have access to it.
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NASW Code of Ethics Relevance:
- Social Workers' Ethical Responsibilities to Clients: This principle emphasizes respecting client privacy and confidentiality.
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Decision: Based on your agency's policy and your assessment of the potential risks and benefits, you can decide whether to accept the client's request.
Scenario 3: Recognizing a client from church
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Initial Response:
- Acknowledge their observation: "Yes, I do believe we've met before. I'm [Your Name]."
- Maintain professional boundaries: Avoid discussing personal matters or revealing information about your personal life.
- Focus on the professional relationship: Reassure the client that their confidentiality will be maintained within the professional setting.
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NASW Code of Ethics Relevance:
- Social Workers' Ethical Responsibilities to Clients: This principle emphasizes maintaining professional boundaries and avoiding dual relationships that could impair objectivity or exploit clients.
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Agency Policy: Refer to your agency's policy on dual relationships. This policy should provide guidance on how to handle situations where you have a pre-existing relationship with a client.
Sample Answer
Certainly, let's break down how to approach each scenario:
Scenario 1: Hearing colleagues disparage a client
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Initial Response:
- Discreetly remove yourself from the conversation. Avoid engaging or acknowledging their comments.
- Later, privately address the matter with your supervisor. Express your discomfort with the language used and its potential impact on client care.
- Document the incident. This creates a record and can be helpful if similar situations arise in the future.
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NASW Code of Ethics Relevance:
- Social Workers' Ethical Responsibilities to Clients: This principle emphasizes respect for client dignity and worth. Using derogatory terms violates this principle.
- Social Workers' Ethical Responsibilities to Colleagues: While colleagues may have personal opinions, they must maintain professional boundaries and refrain from language that devalues clients.
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Agency Policy: Refer to your agency's policy on workplace conduct and discrimination. This policy should outline acceptable language and behaviors within the workplace.
Scenario 2: Client request for a photo
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Considerations:
- Agency Policy: Review your agency's policy on social media use and client interactions. Some agencies may have specific guidelines regarding client photos.
- Client Privacy: Ensure the client understands that their photo will be publicly shared.
- Professionalism: Consider the potential impact of the photo on your professional image and the agency's reputation.