Which relationship is discouraged by ethical guidelines for a PRS?

Which relationship is discouraged by ethical guidelines for a PRS?

• A. Professional mentor relationships with peers
• B. Romantic or sexual relationships with peers
• C. Friendships with peers
• D. Supervisory relationships

Answer: (B)

Maintaining professional boundaries is essential in peer support. Romantic or sexual relationships with peers are discouraged because they blur personal and professional roles, creating risks of exploitation, coercion, or bias and undermining trust and the integrity of the recovery process. Such relationships can impair judgment, threaten confidentiality, and damage both individuals and the program. Other peer relationships like professional mentorship, friendships, or properly managed supervisory relationships are generally acceptable when boundaries stay clear and the focus remains on recovery and professionalism.

Maintaining professional boundaries is essential in peer support. Romantic or sexual relationships with peers are discouraged because they blur personal and professional roles, creating risks of exploitation, coercion, or bias and undermining trust and the integrity of the recovery process. Such relationships can impair judgment, threaten confidentiality, and damage both individuals and the program.

Other peer relationships like professional mentorship, friendships, or properly managed supervisory relationships are generally acceptable when boundaries stay clear and the focus remains on recovery and professionalism.