Why does ethics matter ?
- Navigate multiple roles
- Ethical issues arise
- Learn as much as possible about oppressed groups
What are the 4 historical ethics periods in SW?
- Morality
- Values
- Ethical theory and decision making period
- Ethical standards and risk management
Describe morality period
Problems = individual moral failures
Focus on ethics and morality of clients
Describe values period
Cause: Debate about profession’s future
SWs look at their values and their effect on the profession
Describe ethical theory and decision making period
1970s
Controversial medical developments —> increase ethics debates
Terminology involving rights are introduced
What types of theories emerged?
Utilitarian, dentological
What is utilitarian theory?
Actions are right or wrong —> outcomes
What is dentological theory?
Certain acts are intrinsically good or bed regardless of outcome
When did the ethical standard and risk management period start?
1990s
What caused it?
Increased knowledge around professional negiligence and liability
What are some examples of social work ethics?
Confidentiality
Conflicts of interest
Boundaries
Research ethics
What is Canada’s body of social work regulation?
Canadian Association of social workers
6 values of SW Code of Ethics
- Respect others’ rights, worth and dignity
- Pursuit of social justice
- Service to humanity
- Integrity of professional practice
- Confidential in professional practice
- Competence in professional practice
Strengths of CASW Code of ethics
- Direction and guidelines when ethical dilemmas arise
- Creates and maintains professional identity
- Public declaration of need for professional upskilling
What are the codes limitations?
- Cautious relationship with some clients
- Overlook and neglect alternatives to ethics
- Reflect dominant discourse
What is ethical self reflection?
Using reflexivity in decision making
What are 5 steps to reflexive decision making?
- Describe the case and context
- Define ethical problem
- Explore values and biases
- Gather info: research theory and code of ethics
- Explore options
Why is self care important?
- Burnout
- Compassion fatigue
- Vicarious trauma
How can professionals make their workplace a safe space?
- Share stories and reflect on work
- Process challenging emotions
