Social workers make a meaningful contribution to the betterment of society and improving the lives of individuals. As a social worker, you may work on a macro scale, which might mean working for an organization that helps underdeveloped nations, or you may choose to work on a micro level, such as in a private practice providing individual counseling. Regardless of the setting you choose to work in, you're expected to adhere to a professional code of ethics, which includes the five core values of social work.
Service to Humanity
Service to others is one of the main values in social work, from which all of the other values stem. Social workers acknowledge that serving others is more important than self-interest and put the needs of their clients ahead of their own. This can be difficult at times, and you'll be expected to seek the advice of your supervisor or even participate in your own psychotherapy to help you deal with any personal issues that may arise. Additionally, the value of service means that you'll be encouraged to volunteer some portion of your time - or working on a pro bono basis, according to the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers.
Social justice is another key value of social work. Many social workers decide to enter the profession because they recognize the need to help underprivileged, vulnerable populations, such as the homeless, those struggling with substance abuse issues or victims of domestic violence. Becoming a social worker means that you have an inherent desire to improve the lives of people who are less fortunate or unable to advocate for themselves. According to the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers, social change efforts in social work are primarily focused on unemployment, poverty, discrimination and other forms of social injustice.
Human Dignity and Worth
As a social worker, you understand the inherent value of every human life, regardless of background or beliefs. You respect the differences between your personal beliefs and those of your clients, taking into account ethnic and cultural diversity. There may be times that you have to deal with your own biases against a particular population. It can be a struggle, but you have to put aside your feelings for the sake of helping your clients. You acknowledge that your clients have the right to self-determination -- even if you think you know what's best in a given situation.
Integrity means acting honesty, responsibly and ethically at all times. You are trustworthy and you don't betray client confidentiality, unless you're required to do so in certain circumstances by law, such as in cases of suicidality. Not only do you act with integrity, but you also promote integrity in your colleagues and other professionals. For example, you don't ignore a colleague who gossips about a client -- you confront this colleague directly or bring your concerns to the attention of your supervisor.
The value of competence means that you practice in your area of expertise -- and you don't misrepresent your skills or experience to get ahead. According to an article published in 2009 in "The Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics," competence also means that you're continually striving to improve your knowledge and to make meaningful contributions to the profession. This might mean that you participate in continuing education classes or professional conferences on a regular basis or engage in academic research.
- The Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics: Ethics in Social Work: A Comparison of the International Statement of Principles in Social Work with the Code of Ethics for British Social Workers
- National Association of Social Workers: Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers
- The Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics: What is Our Ethical Duty? Social Work Education and Plagiarism
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