All of the above staff factors may put you at risk for a boundary violation. The need to be liked or approved of by clients can lead to crossing professional boundaries in an attempt to gain their approval. The belief that other staff members don't understand or care about the young person as much as you do can lead to overstepping boundaries in an effort to be the sole provider of support. Poor communication with other staff members and supervisors can result in misunderstandings and a lack of accountability for maintaining professional boundaries. Working in a residential setting can present unique challenges in maintaining boundaries due to the close and often prolonged contact with clients.
This option would not be considered a boundary violation because it involves a staff person talking to a client about the client's personal problems at home. This type of communication is a common and necessary part of therapy or counseling sessions, where clients are encouraged to discuss their personal issues and seek guidance or support from the staff person. It is an appropriate professional boundary as long as it is done in a confidential and respectful manner.
It is important to use your co-workers and supervisors to discuss clients or situations that bring up uncomfortable and confusing feelings. This is because small lapses in judgment or confusion about proper conduct can usually be handled at the supervisor level without bigger problems developing. By discussing these issues with co-workers and supervisors, individuals can gain clarity and guidance on how to navigate challenging situations in a professional manner. This helps maintain a positive work environment and ensures that potential issues are addressed and resolved effectively.
This is because all of the options listed (A, B, C, and D) are indicators of boundary troubles. Having a hard time saying "no" to a client suggests a difficulty in setting personal boundaries. Wanting to save or rescue a client can indicate a lack of professional boundaries. Sharing unnecessarily personal stories with a client crosses the line of appropriate boundaries. Wanting to punish or control a client shows a disregard for boundaries. Therefore, all of these options indicate potential boundary issues.
Boundaries refer to the behavioral framework that individuals must adhere to in order to fulfill their roles. They can encompass legal, ethical, moral, or professional aspects. The responsibility for maintaining boundaries in the relationship between staff and clients lies with the staff member. Therefore, all of the statements A, B, and C are true, making option D the correct answer.
