1.2 Core values and ethical principles in social work

Social work is built on a foundation of core values that guide practitioners in their work. These values include service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. They shape how social workers approach their clients and communities.

The NASW Code of Ethics provides a framework for applying these values in practice. It outlines ethical principles and standards for professional conduct, helping social workers navigate complex situations. Understanding these values and ethical guidelines is crucial for anyone entering the field of social work.

Core Social Work Values

Fundamental Principles of Social Work Practice

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• Service prioritizes helping people in need and addressing social problems
• Social justice promotes equal rights, opportunities, and resources for all individuals
• Dignity and worth of the person recognizes the inherent value of every human being
• Importance of human relationships emphasizes connections as vehicles for positive change
• Integrity requires social workers to behave in a trustworthy, honest manner
• Competence demands continuous learning and skill development to serve clients effectively

Application of Core Values in Social Work

• Service involves volunteering time and professional skills to benefit others without expectation of material gain
• Social justice includes advocating for marginalized groups, challenging discrimination, and promoting equitable policies
• Dignity and worth of the person manifests through respecting client self-determination and cultural differences
• Importance of human relationships encourages building strong therapeutic alliances and fostering supportive networks
• Integrity encompasses maintaining professional boundaries and upholding ethical standards in all interactions
• Competence requires staying updated on evidence-based practices and engaging in ongoing professional development

Ethical Considerations in Value Implementation

• Service balances helping others with maintaining appropriate professional boundaries
• Social justice navigates complex societal issues while respecting diverse viewpoints
• Dignity and worth of the person addresses potential conflicts between client autonomy and professional judgment
• Importance of human relationships manages dual relationships and potential conflicts of interest
• Integrity involves ethical decision-making when faced with competing obligations or unclear situations
• Competence includes recognizing limitations and seeking supervision or consultation when necessary

Ethical Guidelines

NASW Code of Ethics Overview

• Serves as the primary ethical guide for professional social workers in the United States
• Outlines core values, ethical principles, and specific ethical standards for the profession
• Provides a framework for ethical decision-making and professional conduct
• Addresses social workers' ethical responsibilities to clients, colleagues, practice settings, and society
• Establishes standards for cultural competence and respect for diversity
• Guides social workers in navigating complex ethical dilemmas and maintaining professional boundaries

Key Components of the NASW Code of Ethics

• Preamble articulates the mission and core values of the social work profession
• Purpose of the code includes setting ethical standards and providing ethical guidance
• Ethical principles derive from the core values and inform specific ethical standards
• Ethical standards cover various areas (confidentiality, informed consent, conflicts of interest)
• Includes sections on ethical responsibilities in different professional roles and relationships
• Addresses ethical responsibilities to the social work profession and broader society

Ethical Decision-Making Process

• Identify the ethical issues involved in a given situation
• Consult relevant ethical standards from the NASW Code of Ethics
• Identify all individuals, groups, and organizations potentially affected by the decision
• Consider possible courses of action and their consequences for all involved parties
• Examine personal values and biases that may influence decision-making
• Consult with colleagues and supervisors for additional perspectives
• Determine the most appropriate course of action based on ethical principles and standards
• Document the decision-making process and rationale for the chosen action
• Implement the decision and monitor its outcomes
• Reflect on the experience to inform future ethical decision-making