Life does not always present us with problems that are easily dealt with in a black and white manner. Ethical codes can help guide to a place of making the right decision in the midst of confusion. The field of social work is filled with the need to make ethical decision while working with clients and their families as well as with colleagues. Social workers may find situations in which the code of ethics needs to be utilized; Kant and ethical egoism may address the situation in a similar manner; and the model for making decisions can be helpful in resolving the problem. Social workers work closely with their colleagues to ensure the best possible care for the clients. A situation arises in which a close colleague has been showing up to work
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In his moral theory, there is a standard for right and for wrong and it is our personal duty to uphold these standards. The colleague is showing up to work hung over and not in her best ability to work and be fully present with her clients. The DUI demonstrates that she has not been upholding her duty by following the law to not drink and drive. This person is in the wrong and should be confronted. Kant believed that people are valuable and deserve respect (Clark & Poortenga, 2003). His theory may give permission to address concerns with this colleague in a respectful manner. It would be considered a duty to do the right thing by making sure this problem is addressed. It is very possible that if her behavior continues, one of her clients may not get the best possible care and someone could be hurt if she drinks and drives again. Another theory, ethical egoism, encourages action that is in our best interest (Wilkens, 2011). This colleague represents my field of expertise and my company where I work; it would be in my best interest to report the problem so that the company’s name or the title of social worker is not tarnished. If the company’s name is tarnished then I may lose clients. My reason for reporting the problem, according to ethical egoism, is not about getting help for the colleague but to protect my name and my
In his moral theory, there is a standard for right and for wrong and it is our personal duty to uphold these standards. The colleague is showing up to work hung over and not in her best ability to work and be fully present with her clients. The DUI demonstrates that she has not been upholding her duty by following the law to not drink and drive. This person is in the wrong and should be confronted. Kant believed that people are valuable and deserve respect (Clark & Poortenga, 2003). His theory may give permission to address concerns with this colleague in a respectful manner. It would be considered a duty to do the right thing by making sure this problem is addressed. It is very possible that if her behavior continues, one of her clients may not get the best possible care and someone could be hurt if she drinks and drives again. Another theory, ethical egoism, encourages action that is in our best interest (Wilkens, 2011). This colleague represents my field of expertise and my company where I work; it would be in my best interest to report the problem so that the company’s name or the title of social worker is not tarnished. If the company’s name is tarnished then I may lose clients. My reason for reporting the problem, according to ethical egoism, is not about getting help for the colleague but to protect my name and my