Under what condition may a social worker limit a client's right to self-determination?

A social worker may limit a client's right to self-determination when the client poses an imminent risk to themselves or others. This principle is rooted in the ethical obligation to prevent harm and protect the well-being of clients and the broader community. Self-determination is a cornerstone of social work practice, empowering clients to make choices about their lives. However, this autonomy is not absolute; it is balanced with the need to ensure safety.

When a client is at risk of causing harm to themselves, such as contemplating suicide, or posing a danger to others, it becomes necessary for the social worker to intervene. This intervention may involve seeking additional support or creating a safety plan to protect all parties involved. Ethically, the social worker's responsibility is to act in the best interest of their clients and others, ensuring that safety takes precedence over autonomy in situations of imminent risk.

Other options like personal advantage or service cost do not justify limiting a client’s rights. A social worker must prioritize ethical standards and the welfare of their clients over personal or financial considerations. Furthermore, the involvement of other clients does not independently dictate the need to limit self-determination; any intervention must still be assessed primarily based on the risk involved.