We’re now entering Section 3 of the NASW Code of Ethics: Social Workers’ Ethical Responsibilities in Practice Settings. These standards often appear on the ASWB exam in questions about supervision, boundaries, and professional conduct within agencies.
Let’s start with the first standard in this section: 3.01 Supervision and Consultation
Supervision is a cornerstone of ethical social work practice. Whether you're providing formal supervision, offering clinical consultation, or mentoring a peer, Section 3.01 of the NASW Code of Ethics outlines how to do it ethically, competently, and without conflict of interest. This standard also appears frequently on the ASWB exam—especially in questions about dual relationships and digital boundaries.
Here’s the full standard:
3.01 Supervision and Consultation
(a) Social workers who provide supervision or consultation (whether in-person or remotely) should have the necessary knowledge and skill to supervise or consult appropriately and should do so only within their areas of knowledge and competence.
(b) Social workers who provide supervision or consultation are responsible for setting clear, appropriate, and culturally sensitive boundaries.
(c) Social workers should not engage in any dual or multiple relationships with supervisees in which there is a risk of exploitation of or potential harm to the supervisee, including dual relationships that may arise while using social networking sites or other electronic media.
(d) Social workers who provide supervision should evaluate supervisees’ performance in a manner that is fair and respectful.
Only supervise or consult in areas where you are qualified
Set and maintain clear, culturally informed professional boundaries
Avoid dual relationships—especially romantic, financial, or informal ones
Be mindful of digital dynamics (e.g., friend requests, DMs, oversharing)
Evaluate supervisees fairly, respectfully, and free of bias
One way this material might appear on the ASWB exam:
A social worker provides weekly supervision to a new clinician and begins following the supervisee’s personal Instagram account. Over time, the social worker likes several vacation photos and comments on one. The supervisee appears uncomfortable but hasn’t said anything. What is the most ethical response?
A. Continue interacting with the account professionally to build rapport
B. Apologize if the supervisee expresses discomfort
C. Unfollow the account and address digital boundaries clearly in supervision
D. Avoid commenting but keep following to maintain awareness of the supervisee’s stress levels
This scenario involves a dual relationship risk—particularly in a digital space where supervisory boundaries can blur. Supervisees may feel unable to speak up even when uncomfortable. How to narrow: A oversteps boundaries by normalizing informal contact; B puts the burden on the supervisee to initiate; D maintains surveillance without consent. The correct answer is C.
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