Professional conduct is extremely important in any profession. In social work, the National Association of Social Workers’ Code of Ethics embodies the standards and practices commonly expected of all social workers. In addition, the Council on Social Work Education prescribes standards for social work education, and individual states enact licensing regulations, rules of evidence and other related laws and regulations that affect professional conduct.
Social work values and ethics are a central part of the B.S.W. curriculum. Each course includes learning objectives that incorporate the values central to the profession. Social workers value individual worth and dignity, human diversity, self-determination, access to resources, and humane and responsive practices. The profession is committed to human rights, and social and economic justice.
Each student becomes familiar with the NASW Code of Ethics and is accountable to its standards. The following policy guides the conduct of students in the B.S.W. program at Plymouth State University:
“In addition to the academic requirements, students are required to demonstrate professional and ethical behavior. Student behavior that is contrary to the ethics of the profession will be reviewed by the program to determine the student’s appropriateness for continuance in the major. Behaviors that would warrant such a review are based on the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Examples of unprofessional or unethical behavior include, impropriety in personal conduct (such as dishonesty or criminal behavior); exploitive relationships (such as sexual relationships or other behaviors pursued for personal advantage), e.g. with practicum clients; and any form of illegal discrimination or discrimination contrary to Plymouth State University policy.”—From the PSU Academic Catalog