Introduction To Helping Relationships PowerPoint produced by Melinda Haley, M.S., New Mexico State University. “This multimedia product and its contents are protected under copyright law. The following are prohibited by law: any public performance or display, including transmission of an image over a network; preparation of any derivative work, including the extraction, in whole or part, of any images; any rental, lease, or lending of the program.” “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Ethical and Legal Issues in the Helping Professions What is the difference between ethics and law? Ethics are moral principles and ideal standards adopted by a professional organization that seeks to guide the professional behavior and conduct of its members. Ethics define what is right or correct. These concepts are dynamic and can change over time. Laws: Rules of behavior established by courts and legislatures for defining the minimum standards of individual and community conduct and behavior. “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Ethical and Legal Issues in the Helping Professions Ethics are based on cultural beliefs and values: Western Values that Guide Ethical Codes for Most American Helpers Respect for authority. The obligation to “do no harm.” The obligation to prevent harm. Justice, meaning equal distribution of burdens and benefits. Fidelity or trust within relationships. Truthfulness “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Ethical and Legal Issues in the Helping Professions Dual Relationships: Having overlapping roles with the helpee (e.g. helpee is also a friend, lover, boss, employee etc.) Power differential Conflicts of interests Affects both the helper/helpee relationship and the relationship outside of the helping situation. “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Ethical and Legal Issues in the Helping Professions Physical Contact: Sexual relationships Sexual harassment (solicitation, verbal or non-verbal suggestions, or physical advances.) Touching helpees in session (controversial) “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Ethical and Legal Issues in the Helping Professions Helper Competence and Limitations: Provide services only in areas where you have been trained and have expertise. Do not claim training or professional qualifications you do not posses. Correct misunderstandings about your credentials. “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Ethical and Legal Issues in the Helping Professions Informed Consent: Information needs to be given regarding: Limitations and expectations of the helping relationship Background of the helper Costs of services Limits of confidentiality “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Ethical and Legal Issues in the Helping Professions Incidents that need to be reported immediately: Threats of suicide. Threats of danger to others (e.g. threats of homicide). Evidence of abuse (e.g. child, elder). Accusations of sexual harassment. “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Ethical and Legal Issues in the Helping Professions Privileged Communication The right of the helpee to keep confidentiality within the helping relationship even when requested by the court or subpoenaed. This right belongs to the helpee and not the helper. “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Ethical and Legal Issues in the Helping Professions Record Keeping Keep records locked in a file, not just in a locked office. The helpee must be told who else besides the helper will have access to the file and under what circumstances (e.g managed care organization employees, courts etc). “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Ethical and Legal Issues in the Helping Professions Malpractice When the behavior of the helper is deemed “incompetent or beyond the scope of practice.” It is usually filed as a result of boundary violations (e.g. dual relationships, sexual relationships). “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Ethical and Legal Issues in the Helping Professions Protection From Harm Most helpers (e.g. social workers, counselors, psychologists) are legally mandated reporters of abuse of children or the elderly. “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”

Introduction to Helping Relationships Presentation Resources Brammer, L. M. & MacDonald, G. (1999). The helping relationship: Process and skills, 7 th ed. Needham Heights, MA.: Allyn & Bacon. Kottler, J. A. (2000). Nuts and bolts of helping, 1 st ed. Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon. “Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”