ASWB Clinical Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Resource

The situation is considered ethical because, in this scenario, the conflict of interest was not known at the beginning of the therapeutic relationship. The social worker has taken steps to minimize potential conflicts by avoiding direct contact with the client outside of a therapeutic context. It's important to acknowledge that dual relationships can be complicated and context-dependent; in this instance, the social worker recognizes the shared environment but maintains appropriate professional boundaries by not engaging with the client in a personal manner.

Support from the National Association of Social Workers' Code of Ethics emphasizes the importance of maintaining boundaries to prevent exploitation or harm. As long as the social worker is making a conscious effort to keep their interactions relevant to the client's treatment and avoids discussions that may breach confidentiality or lead to dual relationships, this situation can indeed be seen as ethical. The context provides an understanding that participation in shared social or community spaces, such as a church, does not automatically render a professional relationship unethical, especially when steps have been taken to minimize contact.