Which of the following may result from inappropriate gift-giving in a counseling relationship?

Inappropriate gift-giving within a counseling relationship can lead to a confusion of boundaries. Such confusion arises because gifts can blur the professional lines that differentiate the counselor's role from that of a friend or personal acquaintance. This can lead the client to misconstrue the nature of the relationship, potentially undermining the professional therapeutic environment that is vital for effective counseling.

When boundaries are compromised, it can introduce feelings of entitlement or obligation on either party's part, making it difficult to maintain a professional counseling framework. This can hinder the counselor's ability to provide objective support and can impact the client's understanding of the therapeutic process, possibly resulting in transference issues or dependency.

The other options relate to potential positive outcomes like rapport and trust, but in the context of counseling ethics and professional conduct, any perceived benefits cannot outweigh the risks associated with boundary confusion. Therefore, understanding the implications of gift-giving in therapeutic settings is crucial for maintaining professional integrity and effective client outcomes.