professional boundaries Flashcards
What is boundary crossing
Departures from commonly accepted practice that some psychologists may see as appropriate
What questions can help avoid potential boundary crossings
- Am i operating within my competence
- Am I avoiding any topics
- Am i showing any uncharacteristic bheaviours
- Do i have discomfort with boundaries?
- Am i self-disclosing more than usual?
- Am i taking into accoun current personal difficulties?
- Is there a possibility of a conflict of interest developing
What do you do if a conflict of itnerest has occured
- COnsult a senior psychologist
2. Inform all relevant parties and plan for resolving the situation
When is a boundary violation most likely to occur
When a psychologist works in an in individual practice in an isolated office
WHat can increase the liklihood of blurred boundaries
home office, burnout practising in a smalle community
When should psychological services be provided to family friends
Only when harm is imminent if action is not taken
What should you consider when interacting with former clients
- The extent to which they and the form client can establish an equal relationship
- Whether the client is dependent on the psychologist
- Whether the former client may want to re-establish a professional relationship in the future
- The nature and duration of relationship- the new role must not undo the good of the old role
If you work in two professions should you work with a client across both
NO!
What should you do if you are required by law to enter providing multiple psychological services like being a therapist as well as a court witness
CLarify from the otuset what the various roles will involve, what conflicts will arise and ways to reconcile these conflicts to minimise harm to clients
When should self-disclosure be used
never for the psychologists needs, should always be for the welfare of the client
