Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Practice Exam

In group work, confidentiality is a complex issue due to the nature of the setting. Individuals participate in groups with others, which heightens the risk of information being disclosed beyond the group context. This makes it essential for social workers to clearly communicate that while they will strive to protect confidentiality and create a safe space, they cannot absolutely guarantee that all members will uphold these standards.

The correct response acknowledges this limitation. Social workers can educate group members about the significance of confidentiality and encourage a culture of respect and trust. However, since participants are individuals who may have varying levels of commitment to confidentiality, the social worker cannot provide an assurance that all disclosures will remain private, especially if other group members choose to share the information outside of the group.

This understanding is vital for informed consent and helps manage the expectations of group members, ensuring they are aware of the inherent risks when sharing personal information in a group setting.