Law and Ethics Practice Exam

Which condition must NOT apply to the relationship between a supervisor and their interns?

1. Interns must be colleagues

2. Supervisors cannot be related to interns

3. Supervision must be offered in professional settings

4. Interns can receive feedback

The correct answer is: Interns must be colleagues

In the context of the supervisor-intern relationship, it is crucial to understand that while collaboration and teamwork can be beneficial, interns do not have to be colleagues. This option suggests that not being peers is acceptable and that interns can be part of a hierarchical structure where they report to supervisors who are in a position of authority and experience. The essence of an internship is often to learn from those more experienced, which typically means that interns might not have the same level of professional standing as their supervisors. In contrast, the other conditions highlight formal ethical and professional standards. Supervisors being related to interns could create conflicts of interest, and thus, maintaining a professional boundary is important for the integrity of the internship. Moreover, supervision in professional settings underscores the need for a conducive environment for learning, in which the intern can thrive. Lastly, providing feedback is an essential component of the internship experience, ensuring that interns receive constructive criticism and guidance to foster their learning and development.