SW Code of Ethics Flashcards
(12 cards)
Core SW Values
Service
Social Justice
Dignity & Worth of the Person
Importance of Human Relationships
Integrity
Competence
Documentation Ethics
Should be completed as soon as possible after client contact
Demographic info, intakes, assessments, quarterly reviews, reassessments, service plans with goals, discharge plan, release of info & referrals, and correspondence should all be kept in separate sections or folders
Can be hard copy or digital
In the event of a client’s death, these practices must still be upheld. Deceased patients have the same rights as living.
Informed Consent
If client is a minor or lacks capacity, informed consent must be obtained by a responsible third party & assent must be obtained from client
Conflict of Interests
Avoid conflicts of interests and dual relationships – do not provide therapy to two or more people who have relationships. If you are a family or couple’s therapist, NEVER see the individuals separately.
Duty to Warn
if client threatens violence towards others. NOTE: No duty to warn for HIV clients. But do encourage clients to discuss with partners
Service
Social workers elevate service to others above self-interest.
They use their knowledge, values, and skills to help people in need.
They may volunteer their skills with no expectation of significant financial return (pro bono service).
Social Justice
Social workers pursue social change for vulnerable and oppressed individuals/groups.
Focus on issues like poverty, unemployment, discrimination, and other forms of injustice.
Aim to promote cultural and ethnic diversity, equality of opportunity, and access to services.
Dignity and Worth of the Person
Social workers treat each person respectfully, considering differences in culture and ethnicity.
They promote socially responsible self-determination for clients.
Work to resolve conflicts between clients’ interests and broader society’s in a socially responsible way
Importance of Human Relationships
Relationships between people are a key vehicle for change.
Social workers engage people as partners in the helping process.
Strengthen relationships to promote, restore, and maintain well-being in individuals and communities
Integrity
Social workers are aware of the profession’s mission, values, and ethical principles.
They act honestly and responsibly.
They promote ethical practices within their organizations and take care of themselves professionally and personally
Competence
Social workers must practice within their expertise.
Continuously develop their skills and knowledge.
Seek to enhance their professional capabilities.
Solving an Ethical Dilemma
DETERMINE whether there is an ethical issue or dilemma
IDENTIFY the main principles & values involved
RANK the main principles & values that are most relevant to the issue or dilemma
DEVELOP an action plan
IMPLEMENT the action plan
REFLECT on the outcome
