NASW Code of Ethics

Question 1

What are the 6 purposes the Code of Ethics serve?

Answer 1

1. identifies core values on which social work’s mission is based.
2. summarizes broad ethical principles that reflect the profession’s core values and establishes a set of specific ethical standards that should be used to guide SW practice.
3. designed to help social workers identify relevant considerations when professional obligations conflict or ethical uncertainties arise.
4. provides ethical standards to which the general public can hold the social work profession accountable.
5. socializes practitioners new to the field to social work’s mission, values, ethical principles, and ethical standards.
6. articulates standards that the social work profession itself can use to assess whether social workers have engaged in unethical conduct.

Question 2

Does violating a code automatically = legal problems for you?

Answer 2

No. Violation of standards in this Code does not automatically imply legal liability or violation of the law. Such determination can only be made in the context of legal and judicial proceedings.

Question 3

What are the key ethical principles?

Answer 3

1. Primary goal is to help people in need + address social problems
2. Challenge social injustice
3. Respect inherent dignity & worth of persons
4. Recognize central importance of human relationships
5. Behave in a trustworthy manner
6. Practice within areas of competence + develop and enhance their professional expertise

Question 4

What are the 6 main ethical standards?

Answer 4

1. Ethical Responsibility to Clients
2. Ethical Responsibilities to Colleagues
3. Ethical Responsibilities in Practice Settings
4. Ethical Responsibilities as Professionals
5. Ethical Responsibilities to the SW Profession
6. Ethical Responsibilities to the Broader Society

Question 5

What concepts fall under 1. Ethical Responsibilities to Clients?

Answer 5

• Commitment to Clients
• Self-Determination
• Informed Consent
• Competence
• Cultural Awareness + Social Diversity
• Conflicts of Interest
• Privacy + Confidentiality
• Access to records
• Sexual Relationships
• Physical Contact
• Sexual Harassment
• Derogatory Language
• Payment for Services
• Clients who Lack Decision-Making Capacity
• Interruption of Services
• Referral for Services
• Termination of Services