ASWB Bachelor Practice Exam 2026 - Free ASWB Practice Questions and Study Guide

In situations of professional misconduct, such as engaging in a sexual relationship with a client, the first priority for the social worker should be adherence to the Code of Ethics. This document serves as a foundational framework guiding social workers in their practice, outlining the standards of professional behavior and providing clear directives on matters of integrity, client welfare, and professional boundaries.

The Code of Ethics is designed to protect clients and maintain the professionalism of the field. In this context, it emphasizes the importance of the social worker's responsibility to avoid harm, maintain appropriate boundaries, and uphold the trust placed in them by clients. Since engaging in a sexual relationship with a client fundamentally breaches these ethical guidelines, it is imperative for the social worker to prioritize compliance with the Code to safeguard the client's well-being and the integrity of the profession as a whole.

While considering the impact on the client, ethical concerns, and the advice of supervisors are all relevant and important factors, the Code of Ethics provides the definitive standards that must be followed first. It represents a legal and moral compass that guides practitioners through complex situations like this one, ensuring that their decisions align with the established ethical obligations of the profession.