Reflective Journal On Social Work

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I strongly considered a career in social work after completing my undergrad school; my yearning for helping and advocating for all children of the world led me to Barry University. With increased knowledge in the profession of social work, I realized, I have been absent minded in the numerous roles that a social worker plays. As advocators, counselors, mediators, and researchers, social workers uphold principles and core values written within the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics. Social workers mission is entrenched in the Code of Ethics. “Code of Ethics set fourth these values, principles, and standards to guide social workers’ conduct” (The National Association, “n. d.”). Service, Social Justice, Dignity

As a class discussion, we discussed how our personal values, thoughts, and feelings can interfere when working with clients in a social work profession. At that moment I had an epiphany; I realized just how biased I can be and thought about how that could affect my future work as a social worker. As my thoughts circled, I became conscious of how I can project my opinions onto parents and friends on the disciplinary actions of their children. For example, Mrs. Johnson, a parent in my classroom, advise me of her methods used for potty training, which I thought were unrealistic. So, I forced upon my classroom potty training procedures; they were used, consequently, my methods proved to be unsuccessful for Mrs. Johnson. There were little thoughts on the boundaries I crossed.
NASW Code of Ethic states core values is embraced by social workers: Dignity and worth of the persons. As an aspiring social worker, it is my duty to, “Treat each person in a caring and respectful fashion, mindful of individual differences and cultural and ethnic diversity” (The National Association, “n. d.”) Evaluating my own personal beliefs, and setting them aside, will allow me to put my best foot forward when pursuing my professional path and future

47). Social workers advise clients how to attain resources, rather than just providing them. The idea is to include clients in their journey to success and feel a sense of control in their life. I personally believe encouraging empowerment is a critical aspect of a social worker’s roles and responsibility. Engaging clients in setting their own goals is essential, and ultimately more beneficial to them. Clients should be able to access resources on their own; additionally, they can use the assistance of friends, families, communities, and organizations. One of the core values of a social worker is, Importance of human relationships. According to the NASW, “Social workers engage people as partners in the helping process” (The National Association, “n. d.”). Empowerment and advocacy are closely connected. I want to advocate for clients, furthermore, I want clients to be able to advocate for