LMSW Professional Values and Ethics Questions and Answers Flashcards
6 cards from real LMSW practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 LMSW Professional Values and Ethics Questions and Answers flashcards as text
A social worker discovers that a colleague is billing Medicaid for sessions that never occurred. What is the MOST appropriate first step?
Answer: Confront the colleague privately and give them a chance to self-report
The NASW Code of Ethics requires social workers to address ethical violations by colleagues, starting with direct consultation when feasible before escalating to formal reporting.
Which of the following BEST describes the ethical principle of 'social justice' in social work practice?
Answer: Advocating for equitable distribution of resources and challenging oppressive systems
Social justice in social work involves challenging structural inequalities and advocating for fair access to resources, rights, and opportunities for all people.
A client shares information during a session that suggests they may have committed tax fraud years ago. How should the social worker respond?
Answer: Maintain confidentiality, as past tax fraud is not a mandated reporting situation
Past financial crimes by a client do not fall under mandated reporting requirements, so the social worker must maintain confidentiality per ethical and legal standards.
An LMSW is asked by their agency to provide services outside their area of competence due to staff shortages. What is the ethical response?
Answer: Accept only if adequate supervision and training will be provided
The NASW Code of Ethics requires social workers to practice only within their areas of competence, but allows expanding competence with appropriate supervision and training.
A client undergoing divorce proceedings asks their social worker to testify on their behalf in court. The social worker has concerns that testimony could harm the client's interests. What should the social worker do?
Answer: Discuss the potential consequences with the client before agreeing to testify
Informed consent requires the social worker to discuss the implications of testimony with the client so the client can make an informed decision about requesting it.
Which ethical standard addresses a social worker's responsibility to avoid letting personal values interfere with professional practice?
Answer: Professional integrity
Professional integrity requires social workers to behave honestly and responsibly and not allow personal biases or values to negatively affect their professional conduct.