LCSW Ethics and Professional Standards

Question 1

A client discloses they plan to harm a specific person. Under the Tarasoff duty-to-protect ruling, the LCSW must first:

Accepted Answer

Warn the identified potential victim and notify law enforcement

Answer

Immediately hospitalize the client

Answer

Document the threat and continue therapy as normal

Answer

Consult with a supervisor before taking any action

Question 2

Which NASW Code of Ethics standard specifically addresses the social worker's responsibility to maintain professional boundaries with clients?

Accepted Answer

Standard 1.06 – Conflicts of Interest

Answer

Standard 1.01 – Commitment to Clients

Answer

Standard 1.09 – Sexual Relationships

Answer

Standard 1.07 – Privacy and Confidentiality

Question 3

An LCSW discovers they share a close mutual friend with a new client. The BEST ethical course of action is to:

Accepted Answer

Disclose the connection and assess whether to refer the client

Answer

Continue treatment since friendship is unrelated to therapy

Answer

Immediately terminate and refer without explanation

Answer

Consult a peer without disclosing identifying information

Question 4

Informed consent in clinical social work practice must include all of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

A guarantee of treatment outcomes

Answer

The nature and purpose of treatment

Answer

The risks and benefits of treatment

Answer

The client's right to refuse or withdraw consent

Question 5

When an LCSW suspects a colleague is practicing while impaired by substance use, the NASW Code of Ethics directs the social worker to:

Accepted Answer

Address the concern with the colleague and report if necessary

Answer

Report the colleague directly to the state licensing board

Answer

Consult with an attorney before taking any action

Answer

Ignore it since it does not involve the social worker's clients

Question 6

A minor client (age 15) shares information about self-harm behavior. Regarding confidentiality, the LCSW should:

Accepted Answer

Assess imminent risk and involve parents as clinically and legally appropriate

Answer

Disclose all information to parents immediately without client involvement

Answer

Maintain strict confidentiality since the client is the primary client

Answer

Transfer the case to a provider specializing in minors