How should a PSS handle dual relationships to avoid conflicts of interest?

• A. Avoid professional boundaries entirely
• B. Engage in social activities with clients
• C. Maintain professional boundaries, avoid social or financial entanglements with clients, and seek supervision if boundary issues arise
• D. Accept gifts freely

Answer: (C)

Maintaining professional boundaries is essential to prevent conflicts of interest when supporting someone as a PSS. Dual relationships—having more than one role with a client—can cloud judgment, threaten confidentiality, and create power imbalances. The best approach is to keep interactions strictly professional, avoid social or financial entanglements with clients, and seek supervision if boundary questions arise. If a situation feels uncertain, discussing it with a supervisor or a seasoned colleague helps you navigate it safely and ethically. Engaging in social activities with a client or accepting gifts freely can blur lines and raise concerns about favoritism or exploitation, so they should be avoided. This clear-boundary practice protects the client and maintains the integrity of the helping relationship.