"I often remind my clients that no one has ever died from being disappointed or offended, " says Julie Hanks, a licensed clinical social worker in Salt Lake City.

WSJ: Setting Boundaries With Family Members

Bedbug eradication, he says, "is a bit like being a social worker, " dealing with clients distraught by infestations.

WSJ: Little Pub on the Prairie: A Saskatchewan Tavern Tries to Pull Ahead on St. Patrick's Day

Ivan Wong, a 22-year-old social worker who lives in an area where Mr. Li's shops dominate, says that in order to avoid patronizing Mr. Li, he takes trips to another district to do his shopping and show support to the striking workers.

WSJ: Hong Kong Dock Workers' Strike Hits at Reputation of City's Richest Man