What ethical issue does Maurice violate by providing services to his cousin?

Providing services to a family member, like a cousin, presents a significant ethical concern known as a dual relationship. In the context of behavioral services, dual relationships occur when a therapist or service provider has multiple roles with a client, which can compromise the objectivity and professionalism necessary for effective service delivery. These relationships can lead to conflicts of interest or biases because personal feelings and family dynamics may interfere with the therapeutic process. This can impact the ability to maintain professional boundaries, leading to potential harm for the client.

In this case, Maurice's relationship with his cousin complicates the professional dynamics of the service he is supposed to provide. Ethical guidelines generally stress the importance of maintaining clear boundaries to avoid such dual relationships, as they may jeopardize the quality of care and the therapeutic alliance. Thus, the primary concern is that he is not only acting as a service provider but also fulfilling a personal role that impacts his professional judgment.