When should social workers limit clients' access to their records?

Limiting clients' access to their records is a delicate matter that must be handled with care, as clients have a fundamental right to access their information. The correct answer emphasizes that access should only be restricted in exceptional circumstances where granting access could cause serious harm to the client or others. This principle aligns with the NASW Code of Ethics, which recognizes the importance of client autonomy and transparency in the therapeutic relationship.

Maintaining a focus on client safety is critical in social work practice. There might be situations where clients have experienced trauma or where revelation of certain information could lead to self-harm, harm to others, or negative emotional responses. In these cases, social workers are ethically obligated to prioritize the safety and well-being of clients while also considering the legal and ethical dimensions of confidentiality.

The other options suggest limitations on access that do not meet the necessary ethical guidelines. For instance, determining access based on convenience does not sufficiently account for the client's rights or the ethical responsibility of the social worker. Similarly, restricting access to old records without a justified reason or for any client-related inquiry would undermine the principles of transparency and client engagement in their own treatment.