A client in an inpatient unit threatens to "hurt" his ex-girlfriend after a breakup. What should the social worker do?

In situations where a client makes threats of harm, particularly toward an identifiable person, the social worker has an ethical and legal obligation to take the threat seriously. The primary goal in such cases is to ensure the safety of all parties involved. Notifying the police and warning the intended victim is a critical step in risk management and protective action.

By communicating the threat to law enforcement and informing the potential victim, the social worker helps prevent possible harm and takes proactive measures to protect the individual who may be at risk. This action aligns with the principle of duty to warn, which is an essential component of social work practice when there is a clear and immediate danger.

Other options, while they may be part of therapeutic processes, do not directly address the immediate safety concern. Encouraging the client to express feelings or discussing coping strategies might provide support, but they miss the urgent nature of the threat and could potentially leave the intended victim unprotected. Suggesting an apology lacks the gravity of addressing a serious threat and does not contribute to ensuring safety. Therefore, the most appropriate response in this scenario is to notify authorities and act to protect the potential victim from harm.