The NASW Code of Ethics in the Modern World
Social workers are vital members of modern society. Because they work in controversial conditions, it is not surprising that they are frequently forced to face difficult situations that require them to do their best to solve problems. The NASW developed the Code of Ethics to assist social workers. As a result, the assignment’s assignment’s primary goal is to learn about the NASW and become acquainted with the general principles of the Code.
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To begin, the NASW stands for National Association of Social Workers. This volunteer organization was founded in 1955 to strengthen the profession, develop social work practices, and improve social policies (Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers, 1994). Recognizing that social workers must deal with various ethical issues led to the Association’s creation of the Code of Ethics in 1960. It has undergone a few revisions since then, the most recent being in 2008. The Code provides social workers with a thorough understanding of their profession’s core values. They are, to name a few, social justice, the value of human relationships, service, and others. In other words, the Code is a set of guidelines for social workers to follow to protect their clients. The Code is a platform for individuals to be held accountable for their actions. The Code supports an objective as professional conduct for the public interest. As a result, the Code of Ethics was created to eliminate potential conflict situations that may arise while social workers perform their duties.
Despite the document’s importance, some employees may violate it, intentionally or unintentionally. While carrying out their responsibilities, social workers are confronted with dilemmas. In any case, each violation is thoroughly investigated and may result in sanctions for social workers. According to Neil Kokemuller, all violations can be classified into three categories based on their severity: minor, major, and severe (2012). Minor violations occur when an employee is absent without explanation, uses inappropriate language, is rude, and so on. Because these incidents do not have serious consequences for clients or other workers, they are first treated with only oral warnings. As previously stated, the second violation type is represented by major breaches, implying more escalated behavior. Employers can impose documented warnings and suspensions as penalties when employees engage in aggressive behavior with coworkers or customers. Finally, the most egregious behavior results in severe violations, also known as terminable offenses. As a result, they imply the harshest punishment. Such incidents occur, for example, when employees attempt sexual harassment, destroy work properly, bring weapons, and so on (Kokemuller, 2012). It should be noted separately that penalties may be imposed only if an employee’s misconduct is officially proven.
It is extremely difficult for me to always follow the principles of the Code of Ethics. Because social workers perform their duties in collaboration with and for other people, some conflict situations are unavoidable. Everyone has different mental states, educational levels, and even temperaments, inevitably leading to ethical issues. I believe that every young social worker faces difficulties in adhering to the principle of private conduct, which clearly separates personal life from professional life. Poor health, a bad mood, and family problems are common factors affecting employees’ ability to perform their jobs.
However, to be regarded as true professionals, we must leave our problems at homearing and contrasting confidentially; for example, the Code contains a wealth of information to consider when working with clients. Many of the Code’s principles were used in the document. When the client’s well-being or the well-being of others around the client is jeopardized, trust is immediately broken because the client or another individual is put in danger. For me, the Code’s most difficult element is the necessity to avoid possible conflicts of interest. When providing services to two or more people, performing duties that are appropriate for all parties can be nearly impossible. Before performing the duties, it is necessary to discuss everything, and it is this discussion to find a compromise that appears extremely difficult for me. In other words, as a professional and with clients, there must be a common ground.
The Code of Ethics is only a set of standards and principles, and it does not specify which principles are more important than others if they conflict (Reamer, 2006). As practice has shown, there are times when the Code’s rules contradict one another. If this occurs, any decision made by a social worker will raise ethical concerns. Because the Code does not specify how social workers should act in such situations, it is up to them to make that determination. To take the most appropriate steps, social workers should assess the context in which a conflict situation arises and consider all possible outcomes for themselves and the clients involved. Of course, any correct decision can only be made if the social workers have excellent professional skills and extensive personal experience. Choose the lesser of two evils, according to the adage. In other words, if you face a conflict, you should decide with less severe consequences.
We have examined and explained the NASW and its general principles. We have also become acquainted with and learned to apply the NASW Code of Ethics. We are confident that the information provided will benefit all social workers seeking to advance in their careers.
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References
Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. (1994). NASW Distribution Center.
Kokemuller, N. (2012, August 01). What Is a Code of Conduct Violation? Retrieved March 30, 2018, from http://work.chron.com/code-conduct-violation-5380.html
Reamer, F. G. (2006). Ethical standards in social work: A review of the NASW code of ethics. Washington, DC: NASW Press.
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Question 
- Review the NASW Code of Ethics.
- Imagine how you would discuss the role of a social worker with friends or family.
The NASW Code of Ethics in the Modern World
- Think ahead to your field experience and the scenarios you may encounter.
