When two clients are family members, what should a social worker clarify?

In situations where a social worker is dealing with two clients who are family members, it is essential to clarify the nature of the social worker's obligations to both individuals. This is crucial because it establishes the professional boundaries and ethical responsibilities involved in the therapeutic relationship. The social worker needs to ensure that both clients are aware of and can consent to how the social worker will engage with each of them, especially since there may be conflicts of interest, confidentiality issues, and dual relationships at play.

Clarifying these obligations helps to maintain trust and transparency within the therapeutic process. It also protects the social worker from potential ethical dilemmas that may arise, such as favoritism or unintentional harm to either family member. By articulating these obligations clearly, the social worker can create a safe environment where both clients feel respected and understood, which is vital for effective intervention and support.

Other options may not address the fundamental ethical issues present in working with multiple clients who are related, such as prioritizing one client’s issues over another or deciding who receives attention first, which could lead to one client feeling neglected or undervalued. Additionally, focusing on personal feelings about the family can cloud professional judgment and complicate the dynamic further, thereby detracting from the efficacy of the