Ethical Issues Related to Professional Boundaries

Running head: LEGAL ETHICAL 1
Ethical Issues Related to Professional Boundaries
Name
Tutor

LEGAL ETHICAL 2
Ethical Issues Related to Professional Boundaries
Mia and Penny were friends at the University. According to Reamer’s book, they are
facing a boundary issue due to the conflict of interest arising from their friendship (Reamer,
2003). They have a dual relationship, where they have been friends in the past, presenting a
potential conflict of interest if they are to become colleagues. They are already friends, who want
to enter into a colleague relationship with each other, because Mia feel like she might get along
with Penny better. This will potentially lead to conflict in the work place because they need to
protect their friendship and they also need to deliver on what is required of them in the work
place. They might have conflicts when the roles coincide, and they have to choose one or the
other. Also, due to their friendship, Penny’s self-confidence can be elevated leading to boundary
issues.
Mia should avoid involving her friend because it is interfering with her exercise of
discretion. She should take reasonable steps to resolve her issues with Sandy because, although
she is aware of Penny’s qualification, she is not sure about her performance. Also she is
considering giving Penny a job, only because they are friends and they will get along. She is
avoiding Sandy, and disregards her just because they do not get along. Sandy has been doing a
good job for the organization, just that they do not get along. Therefore, I would advise Mia, to
try and be cordial with Sandy, even if they do not get along. About Penny, I would advise her
that because they are friends, getting her a job in the same organization, may interfere with her
reasonableness when it comes to Penny, and it may lead to personal conflicts and conflicts at
work.
The NASW Code of Ethics can be helpful to Mia, because it would guide her decision
making, in regards to steps she will take to prevent conflicts. It advices workers not to engage in