Which of the following best describes a dual relationship?

A dual relationship occurs when a peer specialist has multiple roles with the same individual, which can complicate the professional boundary typically expected in a peer support context. When a peer specialist is also a friend of the peer, this creates a situation where both personal and professional dynamics could potentially influence the effectiveness of the relationship. This intertwining of roles can lead to challenges in maintaining objectivity, creating an environment where the peer may feel pressured to share more than they are comfortable with or rely more on the peer specialist than appropriate.

In contrast, providing services to a family member, supervising their own case, or conducting a support group meeting in a public space do not inherently create the same complexities as a friendship. Each of these scenarios might have different implications regarding boundaries and ethical considerations, but they do not encapsulate the specific challenge of navigating both a personal and professional relationship in the manner that a friendship does. Therefore, the description of a dual relationship is most accurately reflected when a peer specialist is also a friend of the peer.