Masw Code Of Ethics Case Study Essay

Social workers often encounter challenging situations which involve making ethical decisions. Social workers must uphold and follow the CASW/NASW Code of Ethics, CASW Guidelines for Ethical Practice and the MASW Standards of Practice when providing support to clients. These documents help social workers maintain the highest level of practice as well as help them determine the “correct” course of action when ethical dilemmas arise. This paper will explore Melinda Hassan’s situation; deciding whether to return her children after they experienced abuse and neglect. Background information on the case study will be provided to gain a better understanding of the client’s perspective and self-determination and to outline pertinent details that factor into the final outcome. To break down and assess this scenario an explanation of the relevant ethical issues, stakeholders, alternative options and consequences will be addressed. Furthermore, a comparison and evaluation of the ethical argument will follow as well as a description of the …show more content…
The main core social work values presented in this case involve value 1: Respect for the Inherent Dignity and Worth of Persons, value 3: Service to Humanity, value 5: Confidentiality in Professional Practice, and value 6: Competence in Professional Practice. The main ethical dilemma shown in this case is the difficult decision the social worker must make: respecting Melinda’s self-determination to get her children back versus the competence of the social worker to make sure the children do not experience neglect and abuse again. Essentially, value 1 and 3 conflict with value 5 and 6. Other ethical issues found in this case include the separation of her children in the foster care system and the possibility that her father could reoffend if her children are left in his care. These ethical issues will be discussed further on in this