Steps to minimize difficulties arising from these issues
There is a higher risk of exploitation or undue influence on the part of therapists when they have many connections with or cross boundaries with their clients. Though many experts advise against it, avoiding having many partners or straddling professional and personal lines is not always realistic. However, professionals need to have ethical and relationship management skills to succeed in their work (Corey & Corey, 2020). These skills include navigating the power difference inherent in most professional interactions, setting and maintaining appropriate boundaries, and avoiding the inappropriate use of authority.
I plan to take the following actions to lessen the frequency with which boundary crossing and simultaneous relationships cause problems. I will take the time to define the nature of my client relationships and then set appropriate boundaries from the start. This will help lessen the likelihood of any ethical issues developing. Second, I will ensure I have my clients’ permission before proceeding. This will ensure crucial information can be shared without any awkwardness. When clients give their permission, it helps ensure that their information remains private and secure between them and their psychologist. In the third phase, I will discuss the pros and cons of the relationship with my clients. Finally, in the event of difficulty, I will seek advice from experts in the field.
A scenario that reflects boundary crossings and dual relationships
Joan, who is in the human services profession, has a client named Cate. Cate has struggled with addiction issues which she disclosed to Joan, and she sought to work with her to help manage her condition. After working with Cate for several months, she had almost recovered completely from her situation, and Joan could not hide her joy due to her accomplishments. One time, the two meet at a supermarket, and as they discuss the progress, Cate invites Joan to her parent’s anniversary, who had been so supportive during the entire process. Joan agreed to attend the event.
How to handle the situation in a manner consistent with the NOHS Ethical Standards for Human Services Professionals
Before accepting the invitation, it is appropriate for Joan to weigh the possible consequences that would arise as a result of attending the event. First, the event could make her close her boundaries or establish a normal relationship between the two. Still, it is possible that Cate could have personal interests that could contradict Joan’s case’s ethical requirements. Therefore, it would be advisable for Joan to consult her supervisor to evaluate the condition and avoid potential risks and maintain the best practices and ethical standards.
Behavior Contrast
Joan would encounter an ethical dilemma as she sought to uphold the requirements of her profession. First, if Joan attended the event and avoided evaluating the possible consequences, she would behave contrary to the ethical values of a human service professional. Still, failure to attend the event could make the client lose her confidence, and she would feel neglected. Therefore, Joan must make a decision that promotes her client’s well-being and maintains her professional boundaries.
Ethical decision-making model
Ethical decision-making includes recognizing a dilemma, collecting relevant data, determining the relevant ethical principles, considering potential solutions, selecting one, carrying it out, and reflecting on the results (National Organization for Human Services, 2015). Attending Anna’s graduation ceremony may generate a boundary crossing or dual relationship, and Maggie needs to recognize this as the problem. She must learn more about Anna’s development, connection, and the advantages and disadvantages of attending the ceremony. Maggie must determine the relevant ethical norms, which include protecting clients’ privacy, setting clear boundaries with colleagues, and avoiding conflict of interest. She has to think about her options, which include politely declining the offer and attending the ceremony with healthy limits. Maggie must then put her chosen course of action and assess its success or failure.
References
Corey, M. S., & Corey, G. (2020). Becoming a helper (8th ed.). Cengage Learning.
National Organization for Human Services, T. (2015). Ethical standards for HS professionals. Home. https://www.nationalhumanservices.org/ethical-standards-for-hs-professionals
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