After reading the National Association of Social Workers “Code of Ethics” article, discuss one of the six major principals emphasizing its meaning, significance and implications for practice.  What struggles might you see in the practice of this principle?

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Genesis Robles

Nov 17, 2021 at 4:49 PM

After reading the NASW’s code of ethics, number 4 of the 6 major principles spoke to me the most. I will paste this principle below and further discuss its meaning, significance and implications for practice.

“4. The Code provides ethical standards to which the general public can hold the social work profession accountable.”

This code explains the voice of the general public, and is pretty self-explanatory. The people of the general public have the ability to hold social workers accountable for any wrong doings on their behalf when the people feel its necessary. Its important to have this principle, because it ensures the safety of the general public and lets them know that just because we are social workers, doesn’t mean it’s necessarily our word over theirs. 

The only struggles I could think of that I may see in the practice of this principle, is if a client tries to portray false accusations towards me as a social worker if they are upset at the outcome of their case, or even if they try and create an unprofessional relationship with me and become upset when I decline their offer. This is a worry of mine because I am a young female entering this field, and a lot of men feel superior to women and may try and provoke something other than social work and client relationship. In order to avoid anything like that, I will make sure to have all conversations documented and have in-office recordings with the clients consent of course to ensure the safety of us all. If i’m ever uncomfortable with a client, I will gladly refer them to someone else for my own safety as well.

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Keyona Borth

Nov 18, 2021 at 7:11 PM

1. “The Code socializes practitioners new to the field to social work’s mission, values, ethical principles, and ethical standards, and encourages all social workers to engage in self-care, ongoing education, and other activities to ensure their commitment to those same core features of the profession.”

I want to discuss the meaning, significance, and implications for the practice of number five of the National Association of Social Workers code of ethics. I found this code necessary because practitioners new to the field may need extra guidance and support when working with clients. It is essential to know all that the profession entails and continuously take time to educate oneself on their line of work. It is important not to stray from the mission you set out to do. Helping others is a rewarding commitment but can also be overwhelming at times. It is important to know that self-care is on the list of necessities to perform the job correctly. Often those choosing to help others selflessly get burnt out fast. “Social worker burnout is a very real issue in the field and if we (as social workers) do not take care of ourselves and our own mental health, then this can impact the quality of care we provide to our clients” (Bronston, 2021).

The challenge with this principle is that not all professionals abide by the code of ethics. This can mean that new practitioners may lack the professionalism to form a rapport with the clients. Ongoing education is also a struggle when finding time to work around a new caseload or feeling they do not need the extra education. Also, taking time for self-care is easier said than done and can impact work. 

                                                                                                             References

Bronston, B. (2021). Burnout among social workers a real issue amid a pandemic, Tulane researchers say. Tulane News. https://news.tulane.edu/pr/burnout-among-social-wo…

National Association of Social Workers. (2013). Code of ethics (Links to an external site.).  https://www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of…

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