In most circumstances, when can a social worker disclose confidential information without client consent?

• A. Never under any circumstances
• B. For supervision purposes
• C. When there is a duty to warn or protect (danger to self or others) or mandated by law, such as reporting abuse or neglect
• D. With explicit client consent

Answer: (C)

Confidentiality is the default, but certain safety and legal obligations override it. The main idea here is that you may disclose information without a client's permission when there’s a real risk to someone or when the law requires it.

First, there’s the duty to warn or protect. If a client poses an imminent danger to themselves or to others, you may disclose enough information to prevent harm. The goal is to reduce risk while sharing only what’s necessary and to document the decision-making process, often after consulting a supervisor and informing the client where possible.

Second, there are mandated reporting requirements. Many places require you to report suspected abuse or neglect of children or vulnerable adults to the appropriate authorities, regardless of the client’s wishes. These legal obligations take precedence over confidentiality.

If neither of these situations applies, you generally should obtain consent before sharing information. The option about disclosure for supervision or with explicit client consent would not fit the “without consent” scenario, and the idea that you can never disclose under any circumstances is incorrect because these safety and legal exceptions exist.