For this assignment you will identify an ethical dilemma related to the NASW Code of Ethics for analysis. You should begin this assignment by first meeting with your field instructor and getting their input about a particular dilemma you’ve already been exposed to, or one they are willing to share with you. Please refer to the ethical decision-making framework below in your discussion with your instructor.
After you’ve chosen your ethical dilemma and identified the ethical standard(s) associated with it, you will complete a 10- to 15-minute video presentation summarizing the dilemma, your research of the applicable standard(s), and the importance of the standard(s). Then you will find actual violations by practitioners from the New York state licensing board. In your research through the licensing board, you should try to interpret which ethical standard(s) the practitioner(s) may have violated. This presentation will be an opportunity to be creative, using a medium such as video, music, PowerPoint, images, or storytelling.
State Licensing Board Research
For consistency and ease of access, we are asking all students to research through the New York State licensing board. You are encouraged to try locating this information for your own state, but please include the research from New York in your presentation.
Navigate to the New York Office of Professions Enforcement Actions Links to an external site.website.
Click on any year and month to review summaries of violations and enforcement actions.
Be sure to click on or scroll to “Social Work” above the summaries to narrow the results to the social work field.
Ethical Decision-Making Framework
The following framework was developed by the NLASW Professional Issues Committee, and can be found in full context in the article provided on the Module 3 Resources page: Ethical Decision-Making in Social Work Practice.Links to an external site.
What is the ethical dilemma? Clearly articulate the professional values that are in conflict. What personal values, if any, may be influencing my decision-making? Is there a conflict between my personal and professional values?
What is my immediate reaction or instinct for the best way to address the ethical dilemma?
Consult the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Ethical Practice. Does the Code provide direction and guidance? Identify the sections from the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Ethical Practice that are applicable to the dilemma.
Consult applicable agency policies and best practices standards.
Are there legal considerations? Consult relevant legislation where necessary.
What are some of the cultural considerations?
Was this issue addressed through informed consent?
What are some of the available options or choices for resolving the dilemma? Analyze the risk and benefits of each option. What steps do I need to take to minimize risk and not compromise my ethical responsibilities?
Consultation with a field instructor, supervisor, or peer can be extremely helpful.
Does the context of practice make a difference?
Discuss the dilemma with the client where appropriate.
Consider the impact on the therapeutic relationship.
What other resources might be helpful in my decision-making?
Monitor and evaluate the impact of the decision and modify if necessary.
