Making clients aware of their choices in receiving services from a social worker is inherent in which social work ethical obligation?

• A. Autonomy
• B. Informed Consent
• C. Beneficence
• D. Confidentiality

Answer: (B)

Informed consent is the process that ensures clients are aware of their options and can decide whether to receive services. It requires the social worker to disclose relevant information about what services involve, including available options, potential benefits, risks, and alternatives, and to confirm that the client understands and agrees voluntarily. This directly implements respect for client autonomy by giving them the information and freedom to make their own decision. Autonomy underlies this practice, but the specific obligation to inform and obtain voluntary agreement is the procedural aspect of informed consent. The other principles differ: confidentiality is about protecting private information, and beneficence is about promoting welfare.