Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
Social workers hold themselves to the professional standards and ethics that are valued among the profession. These ethics impact the way that social workers work in the areas of micro, mezzo, and macro practice. In regards to policy, research, and practice social workers are responsible for making ethical decisions and recognize the differences in personal and professional values. Social workers strive to be self-aware and realize that personal experiences can influence their work and professional behavior. Social workers work together with other agencies to provide the appropriate services for clients and establish connections between agencies. Willingness to life-long learning is an important aspect of social work. Technology is also recognized as an important resource and is used ethically in the field of social work. Social workers:
- 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;
- use reflection and self-regulation to manage personal values and maintain professionalism in practice situations;
- demonstrate professional demeanor in behavior; appearance; and oral, written, and electronic communication;
- use technology ethically and appropriately to facilitate practice outcomes; and
- use supervision and consultation to guide professional judgment and behavior.
Field Evidence:
Throughout my time at my practicum this year, I have had many opportunities to present myself as a professional. My supervisor, fellow intern, and I would partake in ethical email discussion chains throughout the semesters to discuss how we can keep our social work practice ethical during difficult situations. I have attended many meetings, coalitions, and agency visits where I had to present myself in a professional manner.
Academic Evidence:
During my junior year in the social work program, I had the opportunity to do a case management interview. I demonstrated ethical and professionalism during this interview which can be found here: Video Link. After completing this interview, I put together a case presentation that not only demonstrates my success as a student but as a professional social worker.
