For Dr Michelle only

As technology advances, so do the ways that social workers can connect with clients. Is it acceptable to look at a client’s activities on social media or seek information through an Internet search? Should a social worker allow clients to contact them by text or e-mail? How does a social worker’s personal social media presence influence the worker/client relationship?

It is not acceptable to look at client’s social media activities or to seek their information via internet. According to the National Association of Social Work (NASW) Code of Ethics ethical standard 1.07 Privacy and Confidentiality (q) “Social workers should avoid searching or gathering client information electronically unless there are compelling professional reasons, and when appropriate, with the client’s informed consent “(NASW,2017). A social worker should allow clients to contact them by text or email by providing a professional phone number and professional email. Certain agencies and organizations may have their own policies and procedures when it pertains to communicating with clients which can lead to ethical dilemmas. For an example, I currently work for a DC government agency working with juveniles and during my initial meeting which each client I provide them with my work cell number and work email address. However, during the COVID 19 pandemic it has been extremely different to communicate with my clients because they have no phone service and only access to Wi-Fi so I have had to make an allowance to allow one of my clients to communicate with me via hangout a facetime app. Although I received permission from my supervisor a social worker should review the NASW Code of Ethics in addition to the policies and procedures because they (matter more) NEED HELP HERE

A social worker personal social media presence influence the worker /client relationship because…