Question

Given the following circumstances, use the NASW Code of Ethics to discuss which ethical values/principles are involved and how you would react. Why? 1.When working with a minor client, he/she admits to using alcohol and then later asks you not to tell his/her parent. 2.A client you have been working with for 18 months asks if you would like to go out for coffee after their session.

Answer 1

1) While working with aminot client , the principle of confidentiality must be kept in cases where the situation is not potentially dangerous to the patient. However he or she must be confronted that it would be necessary to talk to his oarepar about it as they have control over the treatment and treatment options for the child since he is a minor. Although he is concerned about the fact how his parents might respond , explain how important it would be to talk to them about it rather than delaying treatment.

2) This must be based upon the principle where the therapeutic realtionships must be considered. In this case, explain to the client that the Relationship is therapeutic and not person and anything which he would like to discuss can be ventilated during the sessions rather than going out for coffee. His concerns can be given an opportunity to be expressed without probing and ensure that he or she is clarified regarding the goals of the relationship.