![]() 1) What is the ethical dilemma? Clearly articulate the professional values that are in conflict. Social workers may find this helpful in working through ethical dilemmas in practice. ![]() The following model, or ethical decision-making steps, is an accumulation of aspects from the models included in the literature and is based on a best practice approach. A multitude of ethical decision-making models exist. ![]() It might be helpful to reflect on the following questions as they pertain to specific ethical dilemmas in practice: What factors primarily inform my tolerance for risk? Is my personal and professional tolerance for risk similar or different? How comfortable am I with uncertainty and ambiguity? Am I guided by deontological principles (rules) or utilitarian principles (consequences)? What other theories inform my practice? 2Ĥ Are there times when my risk tolerance may have been too high? Too low? What were the contributing factors? Ethical Decision-Making Model Social workers are encouraged to use ethical decision-making models that promote critical thinking and reflection. Our tolerance for risk, which is part of the broader ethical framework, can fall along this continuum. As professionals we can make arguments for and against risk from no risk to high risk. This includes risk for oneself and on behalf of another (e.g. Risk tolerance can be defined as one s comfort level with risk. Risk Tolerance When resolving ethical dilemmas in practice, risk tolerance is a concept that should be incorporated. Antle (2005) developed a model outlining the components of ethical decision-making that social workers may find helpful as a reflective framework. We embrace the opportunity to step back and reflect on ethical dilemmas from different vantage points. As a profession we have come to appreciate uncertainty and ambiguity. 1ģ Components of Ethical Decision-Making The resolution of ethical dilemmas in practice is rarely black and white. The material can be incorporated into discussions with peers, managers and supervisors, and can be used by social workers providing field instruction to social work students. An ethical decision-making model is outlined and the document covers areas where critical thought and reflection is encouraged. This guide, which is grounded in the CASW Code of Ethics (2005) and professional literature, is intended as a resource for social workers to use as they navigate ethical complexities in practice and make sound ethical decisions. In addition, social workers may find other strategies and resources helpful, including peer consultation, discussion with a supervisor/manager, review of best practices and relevant standards, use of ethical decision-making models and ethics consultations. ![]() As social workers grapple with ethical issues in practice, a review and reflection on the CASW Code of Ethics (2005) and Guidelines for Ethical Practice (2005) is crucial. ![]() It is this ambiguity that creates the dilemma for the social worker (Linzer, 1999). An ethical dilemma is a choice between two actions based on conflicting professional values both may be morally correct and professionally grounded. On a daily basis, social workers are faced with ethical dilemmas that require thoughtful reflection and critical thinking. CASW Code of Ethics (2005) Ethical decision-making is an integral part of social work practice. Both the spirit and the letter of this Code of Ethics will guide social workers as they act in good faith and with a genuine desire to make sound judgements. Social workers uphold the following core values: Value 1: Respect for the inherent dignity and worth of persons Value 2: Pursuit of social justice Value 3: Service to humanity Value 4: Integrity in professional practice Value 5: Confidentiality in professional practice Value 6: Competence in professional practice Ethical behaviour comes from a social worker s individual commitment to engage in ethical practice. 1 Ethical Decision-Making in Social Work Practice September 2015 NLASW Professional Issues CommitteeĢ Ethical Decision-Making Framework Introduction - Ethical Decision-Making and Social Work Practice The CASW Code of Ethics (2005) sets forth the values and principles that guide social work practice in Newfoundland and Labrador. ![]()
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