Final answer:
The social worker should give the mother a list of other qualified therapists for couples therapy to avoid a conflict of interest and maintain professionalism. Adolescents tend to listen to peer groups when forming their social identities, but may still depend on parents for other matters. Working with multiple generations necessitates an understanding of different values, communication styles, and changing family dynamics.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the scenario where a social worker is asked by the mother of a 15-year-old boy, who is a client, to also provide couples therapy for her and her husband, the most ethical and professional action would be option D: Give the mother a list of therapists who can treat her and her husband. This is because it is generally considered a conflict of interest to engage in multiple relationships with clients or their family members that could impair objectivity, competence, or effectiveness in performing professional functions, or could potentially harm the clients. Engaging in both individual and couples therapy with members of the same family can create conflicting roles for the therapist and confidentiality issues. It's important for the social worker to maintain professional boundaries and refer the parents to other qualified professionals who can provide the couples therapy.
Adolescents are more likely to listen to peer groups when making certain social decisions, such as fashion or leisure activities, as this is a time when they are forming their identities and seeking independence. However, they may still rely on parents for decisions where they feel less confident or where familial values are significant. The types of dilemmas that lend themselves toward one social agent over another often depend on the adolescent's stage of development, cultural background, the type of decision being made, and the perceived expertise or influence of the parents or peers in that area.
Working with different generations can be challenging due to variations in values, communication styles, and expectations. The changing dynamics within a family as children grow can also pose challenges. Social workers need to be mindful of these generational differences and the impact of social factors when engaging with families, to address the specific needs and concerns of each family member effectively.