Professional Values and Ethics Flashcards

A social worker in a community health center is working with a client who has recently been diagnosed with a chronic illness. The client expresses a desire to connect with others who share a similar diagnosis. Which of the following actions BEST aligns with the social work value of 'Importance of Human Relationships'?

Answer: Referring the client to a professionally-led support group.

The core social work value of 'Importance of Human Relationships' recognizes that relationships are a crucial vehicle for change and well-being. Referring the client to a support group directly facilitates the creation of new, supportive relationships with peers who have shared experiences, which can promote, restore, and maintain well-being.

An LSA is providing case management services to a family. During a home visit, the LSA notices that the 10-year-old child has several unexplained bruises. When asked, the parents become defensive. The LSA feels a conflict between maintaining a trusting relationship with the parents and ensuring the child's safety. According to the NASW Code of Ethics, which responsibility takes precedence?

Answer: The professional duty to report suspected child abuse.

The NASW Code of Ethics prioritizes the well-being of individuals, especially vulnerable populations like children. While social workers are responsible to clients and agencies, the ethical and legal mandate to protect clients from harm, particularly in cases of suspected child abuse, supersedes other considerations like confidentiality or client self-determination.

Which of the following is a core value of the social work profession, as identified by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW)?

Answer: Social Justice

The NASW Code of Ethics is built upon six core values: Service, Social Justice, Dignity and Worth of the Person, Importance of Human Relationships, Integrity, and Competence. Social Justice is the principle that social workers challenge injustice and pursue social change on behalf of vulnerable and oppressed populations.

A social worker learns that a colleague in their agency consistently fails to document their client sessions, leaving significant gaps in client records. According to the ethical responsibilities to colleagues, what is the MOST appropriate first step for the social worker to take?

Answer: Discuss the concerns directly and privately with the colleague.

The NASW Code of Ethics encourages social workers to address ethical concerns with colleagues directly and respectfully as a first step whenever feasible. This approach provides the colleague an opportunity to address the issue before escalating the matter. If the behavior continues and is a significant ethical violation, further steps like consulting a supervisor or reporting may be necessary.

An LSA is assigned to work with a client whose religious beliefs are in direct opposition to the LSA's personal values. The LSA feels they cannot be objective in this case. To practice with integrity, the LSA should:

Answer: Seek supervision and consider transferring the client to another professional.

The value of 'Integrity' requires social workers to be aware of their own values and how they may conflict with professional responsibilities. If personal values impair professional judgment and performance, the social worker has an ethical responsibility to seek supervision, consultation, and take appropriate action, which may include transferring the client to ensure the client's best interests are served.

The ethical principle of 'Competence' requires a social worker to:

Answer: Practice only within their areas of expertise and continually develop their skills.

Competence in social work means that professionals should practice only within their areas of knowledge and skill. It also involves a commitment to ongoing education and professional development to enhance their expertise throughout their careers.