Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Practice Exam

Using identifying client data in a grant application for emergency funding due to significant budget cuts would be considered unethical because it compromises client confidentiality and privacy. Ethical guidelines in social work emphasize the importance of maintaining client confidentiality, which means that any identifying information should not be shared without the client's informed consent, especially in settings where it could be disclosed to third parties, such as in grant applications.

The act of submitting identifying information without appropriate consent not only violates ethical standards but could also lead to potential harm to the client if their personal details are made public or used inappropriately. In social work practice, protecting the client's right to confidentiality is paramount and is a foundational principle of ethical responsibility.

In contrast, releasing information to a targeted victim under a duty to warn is permitted under certain circumstances to protect others from potential harm. Notifying child protective services of suspected neglect is mandated by law in many jurisdictions to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations, such as children. Seeking assistance from a supervisor or consultant regarding critical treatment issues is an ethical practice that enhances the support and effectiveness of treatment while still safeguarding client confidentiality.