How should school counselors approach dual relationships according to the ASCA guidelines?

According to the ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors, dual relationships should be approached with caution and managed ethically. This is because dual relationships, which can occur when a counselor has another significant relationship with a student outside the counseling context, may lead to conflicts of interest or compromise the integrity of the counseling process. The ASCA guidelines stress the importance of avoiding dual relationships that could impair professional judgment or create a risk of exploitation.

By managing these relationships ethically, school counselors can maintain appropriate professional boundaries, ensuring that their primary focus remains on the welfare of the students. This approach protects both the students and the integrity of the counseling profession, aligning with the ethical standards set forth by the ASCA. Thus, it emphasizes the need for counselors to be mindful of their roles and the potential implications of dual relationships on the counseling process.