Professional Values and Ethical Issues

Question 1

core values

Answer 1

• service
• social justice
• dignity and worth of a person
• importance of human relationships
• integrity
• competence

Question 2

Ethical Problem Solving Steps

Answer 2

Step 1: DETERMINE whether there is an ethical issue or/and dilemma.

Step 2: IDENTIFY the key values and principles involved.

Step 3: RANK the values or ethical principles which - in your professional judgement - are most relevant to the issue or dilemma.
- typically safety then self-determination

Step 4: DEVELOP an action plan that is consistent with the ethical priorities that have been determined as central to the dilemma.

Step 5: IMPLEMENT your plan, utilizing the most appropriate practice
skills and competencies.

Step 6: REFLECT on the outcome of this ethical decision making process

Question 3

self-determination

Answer 3

• Client-Centered Approach: Support clients’ autonomy and decision-making unless a child is involved.
• social workers may limit a client’s right to self-determination when, in the social worker’s professional judgment, the client’s actions or potential actions pose serious, foreseeable, and imminent risk to themselves or others

domestic and interpersonal violence
- Safety Plans: Collaborate with clients to develop safety plans if they choose to leave an abusive situation.

Question 4

boundary violation

Answer 4

when we KNOWINGLY engage in a dual or multiple relationship with a client

Question 5

boundary crossing

Answer 5

when professional boundaries are
breached accidentally

Question 6

when to use supervision

Answer 6

• If you are a NEW social worker
• For countertransference or transference issues
• When considering an ethical dilemma
• If the social worker is experiencing feelings or emotional reactions
  from the work
• Assistance with decisions concerning the client