How should a social worker address a dual relationship?

A social worker should address a dual relationship by actively managing the relationship to minimize harm. Dual relationships occur when a social worker has multiple roles with a client, which can lead to conflicts of interest and potential ethical dilemmas. By actively managing the relationship, the social worker acknowledges the complexities and potential impacts of the dual roles on the client's well-being. This involves setting clear boundaries, maintaining professionalism, and continually assessing the situation to protect the client's best interests.

In actively managing the relationship, a social worker might engage in open communication with the client about the nature of the dual relationship, discuss potential risks, and explore solutions that prioritize the client's needs. Such proactive engagement can help to mitigate any negative effects and ensure that the professional ethical standards are upheld throughout the therapeutic process.

While the other choices might superficially seem reasonable, they do not adequately address the ethical responsibilities involved. Ignoring the dual relationship risks further complications and harm to the client. Simply asking for the client's opinion does not place enough emphasis on the social worker's responsibility to maintain ethical standards. Discussing the issue only in supervision could limit the transparency needed with the client and may not adequately address immediate risks. Therefore, the best approach is to actively manage the dual relationship.