What aspect of ethical practice includes sharing information only with the client's consent?

The correct answer is focused on the principle of confidentiality, which is a foundational element in social work practice and ethical conduct. Confidentiality involves the responsibility of professionals to ensure that any information gathered about a client is kept private and shared only with their explicit consent. This ethical obligation fosters a trusting relationship between the client and the social worker, allowing clients to feel safe in sharing sensitive information.

In social work, maintaining confidentiality is not only a professional standard but also a legal requirement in many contexts. When clients understand that their information will not be disclosed without their permission, they are more likely to engage openly in the therapeutic process, which can lead to more effective interventions. Sharing information without consent can lead to breaches of trust and can jeopardize the client's wellbeing and autonomy.

Other aspects like transparency, clarity, and consent regulations may seem relevant, but they do not encapsulate the specific duty to protect client information in the way that confidentiality does. Transparency generally refers to the openness and honesty in communication about processes, whereas clarity involves ensuring that information is presented in an understandable manner. Consent regulations pertain to legality and processes regarding obtaining consent but do not address the ongoing commitment to maintaining client privacy.