Boundary Issues

Establishing a professional relationship with clients is importing when working as a caseworker. This can happen by creating an environment that is safe for the client and they feel they are being helped in a sincere and empathic way. According to Corey, Schneider Corey, and Callanan (2011), once the relationship has developed it is common to be invited to special events such as a graduation by the client or even receive a small gift, this is known as boundary crossing, where an uncommon practice is used to help the client (Chapter 7, Managing Boundaries and Multiple Relations).

It is the caseworks responsibility to only cross boundary that do not cause harm to the client; unethical violations can happen even when the casework feels they are harmless such as bartering and transference which both have been known to lead to ethics violations. Another example is sexual relationships, even though they are known to unethical, they can start by simple boundary crossings. By being aware of the consequences these issues can cause it can help the caseworker known how to make avoid these mistakes. The following 4 cases will provide detailed examples of when boundaries are being crossed and how they can potently become ethical violations.

Professional helpers can make arrangements with potential or existing clients to receive goods or services as oppose to currency, which is known as bartering. This is a great way to help clients that may not be able to afford services any longer. Although, this alternative payment method is not illegal it can lead to unethical issues. For instance, Amy is has recently shared with her counselor, Martin Smith, that she can no longer afford paying for services. After listening to Amy’s dilemma, Smith recalls her sharing that she use to work as housekeeper. Smith was already going to hire a housekeeper and feels that this situation could not have arrive at a better time. Without hesitation he asked Amy if