The Secret Of Social Work

As a social worker you are privileged to secrets and personal information regarding your clients. What you do with these secrets is an ethical dilemma you will face daily throughout your career.

1. Venting

Venting is a luxury you don't have. Sometimes the information you receive from a client is so frustrating or disheartening, that all you want to do is talk about it with someone you trust. This, however, is a severe breach in patient client confidentiality, so keep it to yourself.

2. Concern

There will come a time when a client tells you some information that will concern you. If you find yourself questioning if it is in the client's best interest for you to keep this information to yourself, a good rule of thumb is; unless it is harmful to themselves or others, keep it to yourself.

3. Judgment

Not everyone's morals or values are the same as yours. As long as their lifestyle does not inflict harm on themselves or others, keep your judgmental comments and opinions to yourself.

4. Their Nosy Parents

Nosy parents are often part of the deal when you are representing a child. Though their desire to know what their child has said to you is understandable, it is a breach of patient confidentiality. Unless the child is in immediate danger that requires the parent's attention or the child gives you permission to share information with a parent, keep it to yourself.

5. Your Nosy Parents

It is your parent's job to want to know every detail about your new adult life, and your new adult job. Obviously you are going to want to brag about all the heroic work you are doing as a social worker. While you are bragging about all your success, remember to keep patient confidentiality in mind and keep your details vague. Your parents will respect you more for keeping it to yourself!

6. Keep It To Yourself

Though at times it can be extremely tough, keeping a clients secrets is one of the most important parts of the job. Maintaing a clients trust is vital in helping them through their problems. So keep up the great work, and keep it to yourself!