Ethics and Social Work Practice

Abstract

This subject critically explores the relationship between ethical theory, ethical principles, and professional practice. The overarching theme is the service ethic in social work theory and its implications for practice. Advanced reasoning skills will be developed as an essential foundation for critical thinking and ethical practice. The value and adequacy of professional codes as guides to practice will be considered, as well as the conflict between personal and professional values and the legal and organisational context of practice. The notion of moral risk and ethical responsibility, and ethical dilemmas will be considered. The subject will conclude with a discussion of ethical decision making and some common practice issues.

Syllabus

Introduction: The nature of ethics and ethical theory Reasoning: essential for critical thinking and ethical practice Ethical relativism and subjectivism Major ethical theories: deontology, utilitarianism, and virtue ethics Principles of ethical service: autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice Ethical dilemmas and ethical decision making Professional codes, social justice, and human rights … For more content click the Read More button below. data and information securityethics of recording and sharing client informationconsent and coercion privacy and confidentiality truth telling allocating resources and withdrawing services emerging technologies

Introduction: The nature of ethics and ethical theory
Reasoning: essential for critical thinking and ethical practice
Ethical relativism and subjectivism
Major ethical theories: deontology, utilitarianism, and virtue ethics
Principles of ethical service: autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice
Ethical dilemmas and ethical decision making
Professional codes, social justice, and human rights
Ethics and organisations, including potential tensions between personal and professional values and organisational goals
Practice issues and ethical decision making
- data and information security
- ethics of recording and sharing client information
- consent and coercion
- privacy and confidentiality
- truth telling
- allocating resources and withdrawing services
- emerging technologies

Assessment items

1. Assessment 1

2. Assessment 2

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to explain, apply and analyse the ethical theories and principles that form the basis of professional social work practice

be able to apply the processes of ethical reasoning and ethical judgement

be able to develop reasoned solutions to ethical dilemmas encountered in professional practice, based on evaluation of the application of ethical theories, principles and professional codes

to be able to critically reflect on the relationship between ethical theories and principles, professional codes, and professional values

to be able to explain and critique the organisation, legal and human rights context of social work and their implications for professional pratice

be able to critically discuss particular ethical issues in professional practice

Learning resources

Additional resources required by students

AASW (2020). Code of Ethics

United Nations Declaration of Human Rights 1948

Other Human Rights Conventions and Treaties

Handbook