Continued Social Work Phone: 866-419-0818


Exam Preview

Professional Boundaries: An “I” Examination

View Course Details Please note: exam questions are subject to change.


1.  According to the NASW code of ethics, social workers are responsible for setting what kinds of boundaries?
  1. Clear, appropriate, and culturally sensitive
  2. Rigid, entangled, and enmeshed
  3. Contained, transparent, and relative
  4. Permeable, impermeable, and confusing
2.  Which of the following statements most accurately reflects the NASW code of ethics’ guidance on professional boundaries?
  1. Social workers must not disclose any information about themselves to clients at any time.
  2. Social workers should not charge for services if a social worker engages in a boundary crossing.
  3. Social workers must set boundaries without collaborating with clients.
  4. Social workers should consider the effects of social media use on their relationships with clients.
3.  Boundaries are designed to protect the ___________, the ___________, and other individuals involved.
  1. agency; client
  2. client; client’s family
  3. client; agency
  4. client; social Worker
4.  Which of the following are warning signs of “entangled” boundaries?
  1. All clients are treated the same, without exception
  2. Emotional investment in client’s choices
  3. Lack of empathy for a client’s problems
  4. Detachment from compassion
5.  Which of the following examples demonstrates “balanced” boundaries?
  1. Shannon accepts a homemade card from one client, but rejects a cash gift from another.
  2. Don tells his clients anything they want to know about his life, no exceptions.
  3. Laura talks about her clients as “degenerates,” but never documents in this way.
  4. Taylor never shakes her clients’ hands, believing that they are dirty.
6.  Which of the following is an example of a “negotiable” boundary?
  1. The public posting of client’s information on social media
  2. The length of time available for an appointment
  3. Engaging in a sexual relationship with a former client
  4. Asking clients whether your new haircut is flattering
7.  How someone interprets the things you say and do is known as:
  1. Intent
  2. Boundaries
  3. Impact
  4. Compassion
8.  Which of the following are helpful questions to consider with regard to professional boundaries?
  1. What is my role?
  2. How would my colleagues deal with this situation?
  3. What impact will my decision have on other clients?
  4. All of the above
9.  Which of the following strategies is MOST helpful in navigating boundaries?
  1. Engaging in regular self-reflection
  2. Speeding up the decision-making process
  3. Using the power dynamic in the relationship to your advantage
  4. Taking it for granted that clients understand professional boundaries
10.  Professional boundaries are necessary to:
  1. Aid in the social worker’s view of their competence
  2. Clarify the scope of the professional relationship
  3. Prove that social workers are rational, objective, and detached
  4. Demonstrate to clients that the social worker knows best

Our site uses cookies to improve your experience. By using our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy.