Which of the following is a type of dual or multiple relationship? providing therapy to a friend accepting an expensive gift from a client combining the roles of teacher and therapist All of the above
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation (300 words):
A dual or multiple relationship occurs when a professional, such as a therapist or counselor, takes on more than one role with a client. These relationships can be ethical challenges because they blur professional boundaries and may impair objectivity, judgment, or effectiveness, and can even risk client exploitation.
Let’s examine each example:
- Providing therapy to a friend:
This is a classic example of a dual relationship. Personal relationships carry emotional dynamics that may interfere with the therapist’s neutrality. Treating a friend can compromise confidentiality, lead to biased judgment, or cause harm to both the therapeutic and personal relationship. - Accepting an expensive gift from a client:
Accepting gifts from clients may seem harmless, but expensive gifts can create a sense of obligation, affect the power balance, or signal boundary confusion. It may also set unrealistic expectations from the client or cause jealousy or resentment in group therapy settings. - Combining the roles of teacher and therapist:
This situation creates a conflict of interest. A teacher evaluates and grades a student, while a therapist supports personal growth without judgment. A client who is also a student may feel unable to fully open up in therapy due to fear of academic consequences.
Each of these situations alone is a type of dual relationship, and each poses potential ethical risks. The American Psychological Association (APA) and other ethical codes recommend avoiding multiple relationships that could impair objectivity or harm the client.
Thus, the best answer is: All of the above. These examples illustrate how professional roles can become entangled in ways that may not serve the client’s best interests and may violate ethical standards. Professionals are encouraged to maintain clear boundaries to protect both the client and the integrity of the therapeutic process.