When can client confidentiality be compromised by social workers?

Client confidentiality is a fundamental principle in social work that safeguards the privacy of clients and fosters a trusting relationship between the client and the social worker. The correct answer highlights that client confidentiality can only be compromised under specific conditions, namely legal reasons or when the client provides consent.

Legal reasons may include situations where the social worker is mandated by law to report certain information, such as in cases of child abuse, imminent harm to oneself or others, or when required to comply with a court order. In these scenarios, the obligation to protect clients and the community may necessitate breaking confidentiality to ensure safety and compliance with legal statutes.

Client consent, on the other hand, allows social workers to share information explicitly when the client agrees to it. This could happen when clients want a social worker to coordinate with other service providers or share information for therapeutic purposes. In such cases, the client's right to confidentiality is balanced with their wishes for collaboration and support.

This understanding reinforces the ethical responsibilities of social workers, ensuring they respect client confidentiality while also acknowledging circumstances where disclosure is essential to ensure safety or fulfill legal obligations.