Exam 8: Multiple Relationships and Boundary Issues: Risking Objectivity and Client Welfare
A multiple relationship is the same as:
B
Describe the difference between a boundary violation and a boundary crossing and give an example of each.Discuss the client dynamics that make boundary crossings potentially harmful to clients.
Boundary violations and boundary crossings are both breaches of professional boundaries in a therapeutic relationship, but they differ in their severity and impact on the client.
A boundary violation occurs when a therapist engages in behavior that is harmful, exploitative, or unethical, such as engaging in a sexual relationship with a client or disclosing confidential information without consent. An example of a boundary violation would be a therapist sharing personal details about their own life with a client, blurring the line between professional and personal boundaries.
On the other hand, a boundary crossing refers to a less severe breach of boundaries, such as giving a client a hug or accepting a small gift. While these actions may not be inherently harmful, they can still blur the lines of the therapeutic relationship and create confusion for the client.
Client dynamics that make boundary crossings potentially harmful include issues of power and vulnerability. Clients often come to therapy in a vulnerable state, seeking guidance and support from a professional who holds power in the relationship. When a therapist engages in boundary crossings, it can create confusion and uncertainty for the client, leading to a loss of trust and a sense of betrayal. Additionally, boundary crossings can also lead to the client feeling responsible for the therapist's well-being, which can hinder the therapeutic process and impede the client's progress.
In conclusion, while both boundary violations and boundary crossings can have negative effects on the therapeutic relationship, boundary violations are more severe and can have lasting harmful effects on the client. It is important for therapists to maintain clear and ethical boundaries in order to provide a safe and effective therapeutic environment for their clients.
What does the term "fiduciary responsibility"mean for mental health professionals? Also explain the terms that Simon (1992) has used to explain the same dynamic -- duty to abstinence and duty to neutrality.Give an example of a professional whose actions violate these standards.
Fiduciary responsibility for mental health professionals refers to the ethical and legal obligation to act in the best interest of their clients, putting their clients' well-being above their own personal interests. This includes maintaining confidentiality, providing competent and ethical treatment, and avoiding conflicts of interest.
Simon (1992) has used the terms "duty to abstinence" and "duty to neutrality" to explain the same dynamic. Duty to abstinence refers to the therapist's responsibility to refrain from exploiting the client for their own personal gain, whether it be financial, emotional, or otherwise. Duty to neutrality refers to the therapist's obligation to remain impartial and not allow their personal biases to interfere with their professional judgment.
An example of a professional whose actions violate these standards could be a therapist who becomes romantically involved with their client, thus exploiting their position of power and violating the duty to abstinence. Another example could be a therapist who allows their personal beliefs to influence their treatment approach, thus violating the duty to neutrality. Both of these actions would be considered breaches of fiduciary responsibility and ethical misconduct.
Some scholars argue that dual relationships may be acceptable under the following circumstances:
A small but significant number of professionals have indicated that they have accepted friends as clients.Are they any situations under which you think such an action is ethically justifiable? Describe those situations and what justifies them in your mind.
What decision rules should a counselor use prior to accepting barter from a client? Give an example of a circumstance under which you believe accepting barter to be ethical and one in which it would be unethical.
Which of the following is expressly prohibited by the ACA Code of Ethics:
Identify at least three reasons why avoiding dual relationships is a more difficult task for rural practitioners than urban practitioners.
Under what circumstances is it ethically justifiable for a counselor or therapist to accept a gift from a client?
Filters
- Essay(0)
- Multiple Choice(0)
- Short Answer(0)
- True False(0)
- Matching(0)