Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
Social Workers understand the value base of the profession and its ethical standards, as well as relevant laws and regulations that may impact practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Social workers understand frameworks of ethical decision-making and how to apply principles of critical thinking to those frameworks in practice, research, and policy arenas. Social workers recognize personal values and the distinction between personal and professional values. They also understand how their personal experiences and affective reactions influence their professional judgment and behavior. Social workers understand the profession’s history, its mission, and the roles and responsibilities of the profession. Social Workers also understand the role of other professions when engaged in inter-professional teams. Social workers recognize the importance of life-long learning and are committed to continually updating their skills to ensure they are relevant and effective. Social workers also understand emerging forms of technology and the ethical use of technology in social work practice. Social workers:
1.1 make ethical decisions by applying the standards of the NASW Code of Ethics, relevant laws and regulations, models for ethical decision-making, ethical conduct of research, and additional codes of ethics as appropriate to context;
1.2 use reflection and self-regulation to manage personal values and maintain professionalism in practice situations;
1.3 demonstrate professional demeanor in behavior; appearance; and oral, written, and electronic communication;
1.4 use technology ethically and appropriately to facilitate practice outcomes; and
1.5 use supervision and consultation to guide professional judgment and behavior.
Reflection
The meaning of this competence is to intentionally practice professionalism, and ethical decision making while in the field. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of using self reflection to grow from learning experiences. This competency challenges my knowledge of what is and isn’t ethical and professional while engaging with clients. At times, working with diverse individuals can bring up ethical dilemas which are up to the social worker to find a solution. My commitment is to use challenging situations, involving ethical choice making, to guide my current learning and future development.
Competency 1: Evidence of Practice
While attending Southern Adventist University and studying my BSW, I engaged in a variety of activities that helped me to develop and master this competency.
School work:
For this assignment I was instructed to review Competency 1 and reflect on my personal understanding, personal strengths, and where I needed to improve. This assignment helped me to critically think about how I was demonstrating ethical and professional behavior while I was an intern at the Bethlehem Center. Furthermore, It was especially helpful to take time to reflect on areas I needed improvement. I chose this evidence because it shows my ability to identify my strengths and weaknesses within this specific competency. I believe I have mastered this competency not because I always practice it perfectly, but because I know how to reflect on my behavior and grow from learned lessons.
Compentency Application Paper #1
Field:
This document is an example of the research I did for my internship at Mending Arrow Ranch (MAR). This is a list of several non-profits that have similar quailties to MAR. The objective of this work was to gain insight into fundrasing and sponsorship strategies. This experience increased my knowledge in how Non-Profit orginizations get funding for their programs. I believe this will be helpful for my future, as I would like to one day start my own non-profit. I chose this evidence because it shows my ability to collect research, use technology ethically, demonstrate professionalism, and productivley communicate.
Sponsorship Levels of Nonprofits
Outside Evidence:
My third year of college, I was the Social Work Club Secretary. A part of my responsibilty was to type up Meeting Minutes during our weekly club discussions. Above, I have included an example of one of the week’s meeting notes. This activity helped me to develop skills in technology usage and accountability. I learned the importance of timliness and how this contributes to professionalism within this role. I chose this evidence becuase It demonstrates my ability to take quality notes during meetings, use technology wisley, and demonstrate professionalism through proper communication.