Which ethical standard addresses avoiding dual relationships that impair professional judgment or exploit the client?

• A. Confidentiality
• B. Avoiding dual or multiple relationships (maintaining professional boundaries)
• C. Informed consent
• D. Cultural humility

Answer: (B)

The main concept here is maintaining professional boundaries by avoiding dual or multiple relationships. This standard protects clients by preventing situations where overlapping roles could bias a clinician’s judgment or lead to exploitation. When a practitioner has more than one relationship with a client—such as personal, financial, or romantic ties alongside the professional role—objectivity can suffer, boundaries can blur, and the client may feel pressured or harmed. Keeping interactions strictly within the professional realm helps ensure decisions are driven by the client’s best interests, not personal gain or outside interests.

Confidentiality focuses on protecting private information and how it may be shared. Informed consent centers on ensuring the client understands and agrees to the services and any potential risks. Cultural humility involves ongoing self-reflection and respect for diverse backgrounds. While important, these do not specifically address the risk that dual relationships pose to professional judgment or client safety.