The requirements of mandated reporting and your views about confidentiality.
In this Discussion, you examine the requirements of mandated reporting and your views about confidentiality.
Describe at least two circumstances when you are legally mandated to break client confidentiality and disclose selected privileged information without the client’s consent.
Identify a time when someone broke your confidence, and explain how it made you feel.
Describe how your experiences related to confidentiality have shaped your view on mandate reporting.
References
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0145213406000500?via%3Dihub
https://www.socialworkers.org/about/ethics/code-of-ethics
Sample Solution
In the social work profession, it is essential for practitioners to maintain client confidentiality: this involves protecting any information revealed during sessions which may be used against the client in some way (National Association of Social Workers [NASW],2017). While respecting a person’s privacy is key, there are certain circumstances where sharing privileged information without consent is legally mandated.
The first such instance is when a person poses a risk of harm to themselves or another individual (NASW 2017). In these cases social workers must disclose relevant details about the clients in order to protect them from potential danger. For example if a parent were to inform their therapist that they plan on harming their child then the practitioner would need to contact appropriate authorities as soon as possible so as prevent any serious injury.
Another situation where disclosure of confidential information may be required occurs when there are suspicions of child abuse or neglect (Cecil & Norcross 2006). In such cases the law dictates that therapists must report any concerns they have regarding mistreatment whether or not they believe it has actually occurred. This includes violations related sexual abuse, physical assault and emotional maltreatment amongst other forms in order for victims receive assistance and justice moving forward.
In conclusion then we can see how although maintaining client confidentiality is an integral part of being a successful social worker it should not take precedence over safety at all times. There exist situations wherein breaking privilege becomes necessary due issues involving self-harm and/or abuse which could potentially result in severe consequences if left unchecked. By understanding these legal requirements practitioners will be able to better protect both their own interests as well those belonging to those for whom they provide services.
