I discovered that there are numerous ethical limits that can be blurred after reading the essay on social work boundaries. Prior to reading this article, I had never considered these boundaries. Social media boundaries with clients are one area where I feel uneasy and am certain I would need advice. When you can’t reach someone by phone or text, you may now get in touch with them using TikTok, Instagram, and other social media platforms. I always try to see the bright side of things. What happens if clients’ phones are disconnected and can only utilize wifi, leaving them with no other means of communication beyond social media?
Depending on the client’s level of financial stability or instability, they might need to get in touch with me as their social worker if they have forgotten to pay their phone bills or are unable to do so for that week. They might use social media to communicate and get a prompt answer. I can avoid talking to them about private information, but trying to reschedule an appointment so they won’t be charged for missing something crucial might be important to them.
When I worked as a scheduler at an obgyn office, I once received a message from a patient I knew via social media personal messenger asking if I could add them to our schedule because, at the time, our phone systems were down due to a recent power outage. Since no private information is being disclosed, I do agree with Reamer that professional boundaries protect both clients and social workers. I think circumstances like this are still within the bounds of ethics. If I had to explain to a client why we can’t be friends on social media, I would say that upholding professional boundaries guarantees that our collaboration stays client-focused.
The demographic group that I’m interested in is the elderly. While Ted Talk by Haidt primarily discussed adolescents, many of Haidt’s concepts are applicable to older generations too. Although technology can provide benefits for senior citizens, overusing technology for communication may cause older adults to experience greater levels of loneliness and isolation.
The widespread use of technology in today’s environment can have an impact on the elderly. For example, text messages can be a helpful communication tool. Instead of making a simple phone call to wish someone a happy birthday or holiday, my 70-year-old mother believes that sending a text message is disrespectful. Her grandchildren will text her, and since my mom is slow to reply, she believes it is impolite that no one can call her because texting is a sign of laziness. I have repeatedly demonstrated to her that this is what the younger generation does; it’s still communication, but it’s simpler than calling.
Having said that,I would apply it to social work practice by implementing a crash course in technology use while working with the senior population. To help people become accustomed to utilizing technology, I would suggest, for instance, that they try posting something on Facebook or send a text message to their child or family member once a day. They are also instructed on how to recognize possible scams. Additionally, as the world has changed over the past 25 years, I would teach senior citizens the value of using technology.
References:
Reamer, F.G. (2023). Boundary issues. Advances in Social Work, 23(2), 382-391. https://journals.iupui.edu/index.php/advancesinsocialwork/article/view/26358/25414
Haidt, J., & Rausch, Z. (2026, April 9). The case against social media: Seven lines of evidence. After Babel. https://www.afterbabel.com/p/seven-lines-of-evidence-against-social-media?r=32tyct&utm_medium=ios&triedRedirect=true
Haidt, J. (2026, May 29). How screens stole childhood — and how to get it back [Video]. TED Talks. https://www.ted.com/talks/jonathan_haidt_how_screens_stole_childhood_and_how_to_get_it_back
I really liked your post because you brought up situations that social workers could actually face in real life. I agree that helping older adults feel more comfortable with technology can make a big difference while also teaching them how to stay safe online. How would you handle it if a client kept reaching out through your personal social media even after you explained the professional boundaries?
As a case manager, I did not consider clients not being able to get a hold of me if they did not have phone service. I don’t think I like the idea of clients reaching out to me on social media as I would not want them peeking into my personal life, however I can see how it may be helpful for clients. I wonder if making social media accounts strictly for work would help maintain professional boundaries? That way clients can keep in touch but not have access to personal life.
Hi Ebony!
You made a great point about clients who have limited access to phone services and may be low-income, therefore making Wi-Fi-based communication easier for them. I had not thought of this alternative to cellular communication, but it is an important thing to bring up and think about so that we can try to cater to those who are low-income and have limited access to different resources. The scenarios you bring up are valid, but also tricky to deal with. I think as social workers, we acknowledge the difficult circumstances people are faced with and want to help them no matter what, but with that being said, boundaries could be blurred very easily if we keep this mindset constantly. Having open and truthful communication during sessions could help mitigate the communication outside of work hours, such as sharing your office hours of when you are available, explaining that if there is a situation that is outside of those hours, you may not be able to communicate. Obviously, every person is different, but if scheduling and timeliness are an issue, working on that during sessions could help serve both the client and us.
Thank you for adding your personal experiences with your Mom. I think that, as much as older adults may be used to how interactions were when they were growing up and as younger adults, it is still so important to not forget about this population and give them access to resources such as technology classes. Great ideas!
You made a good point about clients not having access to certain levels of communication. While I believe that we should with all efforts “meet clients where they are at”, I personally am very senstive to boundaries having worked in another field where boundaries were constantly crossed especally surrounding my personal time and contact. I was thankful this past year at my practicum that I had a designated email to contact clients with. However I did not have a phone line with a direct number that I could be reached at. When clients wanted to call they needed to call the main line and then asked to be transferred while I am sure to some this was cumbersome, I was very firm in not calling from my own personal number, which my site was supportive of. I even once had a client call a friend who was at the library branch I was at and ask if she could pass me her phone to talk. Even talking on a stranger’s personal phone seemed like a crossed boundary and I asked for the number she was calling from so I could call her from the branch phone. I think in this day and age, with so much access to technology and online spaces where we can be reached, I think it is importance not only for our own mental wellness and safety but all for the benefit and ethical standards for our clients, maintaining professional boundaries especially around technology and social media is extremely important.