California Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What is one potential risk of gratuitous self-disclosure by practitioners?

1. Enhancing the therapeutic relationship

2. Creating clarity in boundaries

3. Leading to boundary confusion

4. Encouraging client engagement

The correct answer is: Leading to boundary confusion

Gratuitous self-disclosure by practitioners can lead to boundary confusion, which poses a significant risk in the therapeutic relationship. Practitioners are expected to maintain professional boundaries to ensure a safe and effective environment for clients. When a practitioner shares personal information that is not directly relevant to the client's treatment, it can blur the lines between professional and personal roles. This confusion can undermine the client's focus on their own issues and may shift the dynamics of the relationship to a more familial or peer-like interaction. Clients might feel overwhelmed, confused, or even pressured to respond to the practitioner's personal information, which can detract from the therapeutic process. It's critical for practitioners to carefully consider the impact of self-disclosure and to prioritize the client's needs and therapeutic goals, ensuring that the focus remains on the client rather than on the practitioner's experiences.