Social Work Ethics and Values Flashcards
7 cards from real LMSW practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Social Work Ethics and Values flashcards as text
A social worker in a rural community is the only mental health provider available and is asked to provide therapy to a close friend's spouse. The most ethical action is to:
Answer: Consult with a supervisor and document the decision-making process carefully
In rural settings where multiple relationships may be unavoidable, the NASW Code advises careful consultation, documentation, and safeguards rather than an absolute prohibition.
Which action best exemplifies the social work value of 'social justice'?
Answer: Advocating for policy changes that address systemic barriers faced by marginalized populations
Social justice in social work requires advocacy at the macro level to challenge systemic inequities and structural barriers, not just individual client interventions.
A social worker is subpoenaed to testify about a client in a custody hearing. The client has not given consent to disclose. The worker should:
Answer: Comply with the subpoena but assert privilege and request a court ruling
When subpoenaed without client consent, social workers should comply with the legal process while asserting the client's privilege and requesting that the court rule on whether disclosure is required.
Informed consent in social work practice is best described as:
Answer: An ongoing process that ensures clients understand and agree to services throughout treatment
Informed consent is an ongoing process, not a single event, requiring continued communication about services, changes in treatment, and the client's right to withdraw consent.
A social worker is beginning to experience burnout and notices their work quality has declined. The ethical obligation under the NASW Code is to:
Answer: Seek consultation, supervision, and personal help to address the impairment
The NASW Code of Ethics requires social workers to address personal impairments that affect professional performance by seeking appropriate help, including supervision and personal support.
A client from a collectivist cultural background insists that family members make all treatment decisions on their behalf. The social worker's ethical approach should be to:
Answer: Explore the client's wishes regarding family involvement and incorporate their cultural values
Culturally responsive practice requires understanding that self-determination may be expressed collectively in some cultures, and services should reflect the client's own definition of decision-making.
Under the principle of fidelity in social work ethics, a social worker is obligated to:
Answer: Keep promises and commitments made to clients
Fidelity refers to keeping promises, honoring commitments, and being trustworthy in the professional relationship, which is foundational to the therapeutic alliance.