Ethical Dilemmas in Social Work: Master Ethical Decision-Making

Question 1

Which of the following situations best exemplifies a conflict of interest in social work?

Accepted Answer

Providing counseling to a close friend

Answer

Accepting a gift card from a client

Answer

Disclosing confidential information to a supervisor

Answer

Advocating for a client's rights in court

Question 2

According to the principle of confidentiality, social workers are ethically obligated to:

Accepted Answer

Maintain the privacy of client information, except when legally compelled to disclose

Answer

Disclose all client information to other professionals involved in their care

Answer

Obtain written consent from clients before sharing any information

Answer

Report any suspected cases of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities

Question 3

When faced with an ethical dilemma, the initial step a social worker should take is to:

Accepted Answer

Seek guidance from a supervisor or ethics committee

Answer

Make a decision based solely on personal values

Answer

Follow agency policies without question

Answer

Ignore the dilemma altogether

Question 4

Which of the following is NOT a recognized source of ethical guidance for social workers?

Accepted Answer

Personal beliefs and values

Answer

National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics

Answer

State licensing regulations

Answer

Agency policies and procedures

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of informed consent in social work?

Accepted Answer

To ensure that the client fully comprehends the potential risks and benefits of treatment

Answer

To obtain the client's permission to provide services

Answer

To protect the social worker from legal liability

Answer

To document the social worker's competence and expertise

Question 6

What is the fundamental distinction between an ethical dilemma and an ethical violation?

Accepted Answer

An ethical dilemma involves a conflict between two or more ethical principles, while an ethical violation involves breaking a clear ethical rule

Answer

An ethical dilemma is always a serious matter, while an ethical violation is not

Answer

Ethical dilemmas are more prevalent in social work than ethical violations

Answer

There is no meaningful difference between an ethical dilemma and an ethical violation

Question 7

Which ethical principle is fundamental to social work practice, emphasizing the client's right to make their own decisions and direct their own lives?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy and self-determination

Answer

Beneficence and non-maleficence

Answer

Justice and equality

Answer

Confidentiality and privacy

Question 8

Which ethical principle prioritizes the protection of clients' privacy and the confidentiality of their personal information?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Justice

Question 9

According to the NASW Code of Ethics, social workers are obligated to:

Accepted Answer

Abide by applicable laws, even if they conflict with personal values

Answer

Prioritize self-interest above the well-being of clients

Answer

Disregard conflicts of interest that may arise

Answer

Conceal any ethical violations committed by colleagues

Question 10

Ethical fading refers to:

Accepted Answer

The gradual weakening or erosion of ethical standards over time

Answer

Intentional use of unethical means to achieve desired outcomes

Answer

Complete avoidance of ethical dilemmas in practice

Answer

Prioritization of personal gain over ethical principles

Question 11

Which ethical principle focuses on promoting the well-being and interests of clients?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Justice

Question 12

Which ethical principle emphasizes respecting the wishes of clients and allowing them to make their own decisions?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Justice

Question 13

A social worker is working with a client who is a victim of domestic violence. The client is reluctant to report the abuse because they fear retaliation. What should the social worker do?

Accepted Answer

Respect the client's decision and provide support

Answer

Encourage the client to report the abuse immediately

Answer

Contact the perpetrator and attempt to mediate the situation

Answer

Breach confidentiality and contact law enforcement without the client's consent

Question 14

A social worker is working with a client who has a developmental disability. The client's family requests access to the client's medical records. What should the social worker do?

Accepted Answer

Seek the client's consent before releasing any information

Answer

Provide the family with the records without hesitation

Answer

Deny the family's request based on confidentiality

Answer

Obtain a court order before releasing any information

Question 15

Which of the following situations could present a conflict of interest for a social worker?

Accepted Answer

Providing therapy to a family member

Answer

Working with clients from a different cultural background

Answer

Advocating for social justice

Answer

Accepting small gifts from clients on occasion

Question 16

The principle of confidentiality requires social workers to:

Accepted Answer

Maintain the privacy of client information, ensuring it's kept strictly confidential.

Answer

Use client information for research purposes without the client's prior consent

Answer

Disclose client information to other professionals without the client's informed consent

Answer

Share client information with family members without the client's explicit consent

Question 17

Which of the following best exemplifies a dual relationship?

Accepted Answer

A social worker providing therapy to a client they are also romantically involved with

Answer

A social worker who is employed by the same organization as their client's spouse

Answer

A social worker who shares the same religious beliefs as their client

Answer

A social worker being close friends with the client

Question 18

The ethical principle of beneficence requires social workers to:

Accepted Answer

Act in the best interests of the client, prioritizing their well-being

Answer

Promote social justice on a broader scale

Answer

Avoid causing harm to the client

Answer

Respect the client's right to make their own decisions

Question 19

Which of the following strategies can be useful for resolving ethical dilemmas in social work?

Accepted Answer

Consulting with a supervisor or more experienced colleague

Answer

Relying solely on personal values and beliefs

Answer

Ignoring the potential consequences and making a decision based on gut feeling

Question 20

Which of the following is an example of a cultural competence issue that can arise in ethical decision-making?

Accepted Answer

Misinterpreting a client's behavior due to cultural differences

Answer

Being aware of the client's cultural background

Answer

Using a culturally sensitive approach in interactions

Question 21

The ethical principle of autonomy requires social workers to:

Accepted Answer

Respect the client's right to make choices about their own life, even if the social worker disagrees with those choices

Answer

Protect the client from any potential harm, even if it means limiting their choices

Answer

Follow the client's instructions without question or hesitation

Question 22

Which of the following is a reporting requirement for social workers?

Accepted Answer

Suspected child abuse or neglect

Answer

Clients' financial information

Answer

Clients' substance use history

Answer

Clients' mental health history

Question 23

The ethical principle of non-maleficence requires social workers to:

Accepted Answer

Avoid causing harm to clients, both intentionally and unintentionally

Answer

Act solely in the best interests of the client, regardless of potential consequences

Answer

Promote social justice and advocate for systemic change

Answer

Respect the client's autonomy and right to make their own decisions

Question 24

Which of the following is a core ethical principle in social work, emphasizing the inherent value and dignity of all individuals?

Accepted Answer

Respect for the Person

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Non-maleficence

Question 25

Which ethical framework provides guidance for social workers in resolving ethical dilemmas?

Accepted Answer

National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics

Answer

American Psychological Association (APA) Ethical Principles

Answer

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Answer

Hippocrates' Oath

Question 26

A client offers a social worker money in exchange for sexual favors. What is the social worker's ethical obligation?

Accepted Answer

To report the incident to the appropriate authorities.

Answer

To ignore the offer and hope the client forgets.

Answer

To accept the offer to help the client in need.

Question 27

Which of the following is a potential consequence of violating ethical principles in social work?

Accepted Answer

Revocation of professional license.

Answer

Improved client outcomes.

Answer

Increased job opportunities.

Answer

Public recognition and praise.

Question 28

A client requests the social worker's assistance in ending their life. What is the social worker's ethical obligation?

Accepted Answer

To refuse the request.

Answer

To seek a second opinion from another professional.

Answer

To assist the client with ending their life.

Answer

To refer the client to a hospice care facility.

Question 29

Which of the following is NOT typically considered a common ethical dilemma faced by social workers?

Accepted Answer

Lack of funding

Answer

Confidentiality

Answer

Conflicts of interest

Answer

Dual relationships

Question 30

Which ethical principle obligates social workers to protect and maintain the privacy of client information?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Nonmaleficence

Answer

Justice

Question 31

When a social worker is treating a client who discloses that they are being abused by their partner, the social worker is legally required to:

Accepted Answer

Report the abuse to the appropriate authorities

Answer

Document the disclosure in the client's file

Answer

Refer the client to another therapist

Answer

Maintain the client's confidentiality

Question 32

What is the recommended initial step in resolving an ethical dilemma?

Accepted Answer

Identifying the ethical issues involved in the situation

Answer

Making a decision about how to proceed

Answer

Applying ethical principles to the situation

Answer

Consulting with a supervisor about the situation

Question 33

Which ethical principle emphasizes the importance of treating all clients with respect, dignity, and worth?

Accepted Answer

Respect for Persons

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Justice

Answer

Beneficence

Question 34

What is the primary purpose of ethical codes in the social work profession?

Accepted Answer

To provide guidance for ethical decision-making and conduct

Answer

To protect social workers from legal liability

Answer

To punish social workers who violate ethical standards

Answer

To promote public trust in the social work profession exclusively

Question 35

Which of the following is a fundamental ethical principle in social work?

Accepted Answer

Service

Answer

Advancing personal interests

Answer

Respecting colleagues' opinions

Question 36

A social worker is working with a client who has disclosed their substance use during therapy sessions. Which of the following actions should the social worker take?

Accepted Answer

Explore the client's reasons for using substances

Answer

Report the client to the authorities

Answer

End the therapeutic relationship

Answer

Ignore the client's disclosure

Question 37

What is a primary benefit of adhering to ethical principles in social work?

Accepted Answer

Protecting clients' well-being and rights

Answer

Enhancing professional reputation

Answer

Increasing client satisfaction

Answer

Avoiding legal consequences

Question 38

Which of the following is an essential characteristic of a healthy therapeutic relationship?

Accepted Answer

Respectful and collaborative communication

Answer

Breach of confidentiality

Answer

Power imbalance

Answer

Lack of trust

Question 39

A social worker is working with a client whose family requests information about the client's therapy. Which of the following actions should the social worker take?

Accepted Answer

Obtain the client's consent before sharing any information

Answer

Share detailed information about the client's diagnosis and treatment plan

Answer

Provide general updates about the client's progress without specific details

Question 40

What is a potential ethical concern associated with using technology in social work?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining confidentiality and privacy of client information

Answer

Enhanced client engagement

Answer

Improved communication with colleagues

Answer

Increased accessibility to services

Question 41

A social worker encounters a client who expresses suicidal thoughts. What is the social worker's primary ethical responsibility?

Accepted Answer

Assessing the client's risk and taking appropriate safety measures

Answer

Encouraging the client to seek professional help

Answer

Contacting the client's family or guardians

Answer

Terminating the client relationship

Question 42

A licensed professional counselor is providing therapy to a client who discloses that they have committed a serious crime. The counselor is legally obligated to report the crime to the authorities, but the client threatens to harm themselves if the counselor does so. What should the counselor do??

Accepted Answer

Contact the client's psychiatrist and seek guidance on how to proceed without violating the client's confidentiality or putting them at risk.

Answer

End the therapy sessions and refer the client to another provider.

Answer

Report the crime to the authorities immediately, regardless of the client's threats.

Question 43

A social worker is providing services to a family where there is suspicion of child abuse or neglect. The social worker has observed concerning behavior and physical signs on the child, but the parents deny any wrongdoing. What is the social worker's ethical responsibility?

Accepted Answer

Document observations and interactions with the family, consult with Child Protective Services (CPS), and report suspected abuse or neglect as required by law.

Answer

Ignore the concerns and continue working with the family.

Answer

Confront the parents directly about the child's injuries.

Question 44

A social worker is offered a monetary gift by a client in appreciation for their services. The social worker knows that accepting gifts can create a conflict of interest and violate ethical guidelines. What should the social worker do?

Accepted Answer

Politely decline the gift and explain the ethical guidelines regarding gifts and professional boundaries.

Answer

Accept the gift and keep it a secret.

Answer

Accept the gift and disclose it to their supervisor for review.

Question 45

A social work student is completing an internship and working with a client who is in a romantic relationship with a family member of the student. The client approaches the student and asks for help resolving conflicts in the relationship. How should the student proceed?

Accepted Answer

Refer the client to another supervisor who is not related to the family member to avoid potential conflicts of interest.

Answer

End the professional relationship with the client immediately.

Answer

Continue working with the client and disclose the relationship to the client's primary therapist.

Question 46

A social worker is providing services to a client who has a terminal illness. The client asks the social worker to assist them in ending their life. How should the social worker respond?

Accepted Answer

Explain that assisted suicide is illegal and unethical, and offer support and alternative options for end-of-life care.

Answer

Report the client's request to the authorities.

Answer

Assist the client in ending their life, as it is their right to choose.

Question 47

A social worker is working with a client who is experiencing domestic violence. The client tells the social worker that they are afraid to leave the abuser because they fear retaliation. What is the social worker's primary responsibility?

Accepted Answer

Create a safety plan with the client and connect them with resources for support and protection, while respecting the client's autonomy and choices.

Answer

Confront the abuser and try to negotiate a more peaceful situation.

Answer

Report the abuse to the authorities without the client's consent.

Question 48

A social worker is working with a client who is undocumented and has been deported back to their home country. The social worker has concerns about the client's safety and well-being. What is the social worker's ethical obligation?

Accepted Answer

Respect the client's decision not to return and continue to provide support and advocacy as appropriate, while considering the limitations and potential risks.

Answer

Report the client's whereabouts to the authorities.

Answer

Cut off all contact with the client to avoid any legal repercussions.

Question 49

A social worker is working with a client who has a substance use disorder. The client is initially resistant to treatment but later expresses a desire to change. What is the social worker's ethical responsibility?

Accepted Answer

Continue to engage the client, explore treatment options, and support their recovery journey, while respecting their autonomy and promoting their well-being.

Answer

Force the client into treatment against their will.

Answer

Abandon the case due to the client's resistance.

Question 50

A social worker is working with a client who has been involved in the foster care system for several years. The client is about to turn 18 and will soon be aging out of the system. What is the social worker's ethical obligation?

Accepted Answer

Provide the client with information and support to help them prepare for independence, advocate for their needs, and connect them with appropriate resources.

Answer

Encourage the client to remain in the foster care system for as long as possible.

Answer

Ignore the client's situation and focus on other cases.

Question 51

A social worker is working with a client who has a serious mental illness and is experiencing auditory hallucinations. The client is refusing to take medication and is exhibiting increasingly bizarre behavior. What is the social worker's ethical obligation?

Accepted Answer

Balance the client's right to self-determination with their safety and well-being, explore alternative treatment options, and consider involuntary commitment if necessary.

Answer

Allow the client to make decisions about their own care, even if it puts them at risk.

Answer

Force the client to take medication against their will.