Dual Relationships Paper

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Running head: DUAL RELATIONSHIPS Dual Relationships and Boundaries Team Paper Ottia Birl, Jamie Howell, Narisha Jordan, Tomeka Murray, and Ronald Smith Psych/545 March 26, 2011 Doreen Benjamin, Psy.D Dual Relationships and Boundaries Team Paper Abstract In this paper issues involving dual relationships and boundary issues are addressed through the example of a fictional, but generally common scenario. Dual relationships exist when a therapist maintains another, significantly different relationship with a client outside of the professional client and therapist relationship. Part one describes in detail what a dual relationship consists of, and the ramifications of the dual relationship. Next, a scenario presented displays the potential of developing dual relationship and boundary issues. In examining the scenario the ethical issues presented are discussed. Last, the subject matter of this paper explains the challenges presented by boundary issues in professional psychology. Dual Relationships and Boundaries Team Paper The issue of duel relationships and boundary violations stir up questions in professional ethics. The American Psychological Association’s Ethics committee revealed that 40 to 50% of all complaints filed stem from dual relationships (Meyers, 2005). Psychological professionals are often criticized for disregarding the rights of the clients, resulting in distrust, and in many cases their licenses revoked. Dual relations between psychologist and client are the leading cause of termination according to an article by Meyers (2005). This paper will examine the concept of dual relationships. It will present a scenario and analyze the dual relationships that exist. This paper will also discuss in detail the ethical issues and challenges that are presented by the dual relationships. Last, this paper will explain the

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