In social work ethics, which statement about confidentiality is MOST accurate?

In social work ethics, which statement about confidentiality is MOST accurate?

• A. It is absolute and never breached.
• B. It may be breached when there is imminent risk of harm to self or others.
• C. It is only applicable to adults.
• D. It requires sharing information with the client's employer.

Answer: (B)

Confidentiality is a foundational trust in social work, but it isn’t absolute. The most accurate principle is that you may breach confidentiality when there is imminent risk of harm to the client or to others. In those immediate danger situations, taking action to prevent harm—such as contacting appropriate authorities or arranging emergency help—is ethically required or permitted, even though it means sharing information beyond the client. This protects safety while still honoring privacy in standard, non-harm situations. Additional disclosures, like sharing with an employer, generally require the client’s consent or a clear legal mandate, and confidentiality applies to clients of all ages, with age-related nuances in what information can be shared.

Confidentiality is a foundational trust in social work, but it isn’t absolute. The most accurate principle is that you may breach confidentiality when there is imminent risk of harm to the client or to others. In those immediate danger situations, taking action to prevent harm—such as contacting appropriate authorities or arranging emergency help—is ethically required or permitted, even though it means sharing information beyond the client. This protects safety while still honoring privacy in standard, non-harm situations. Additional disclosures, like sharing with an employer, generally require the client’s consent or a clear legal mandate, and confidentiality applies to clients of all ages, with age-related nuances in what information can be shared.