Ethical Decision Making Model In Social Work

In the field of Social work, it is essential that we are all treating clients equally and ethically. It is our duty to promote the well-being of our clients. As individuals, we each have our own values and beliefs. When it comes to social work, all that is pushed aside and we must go off of the NASW code of ethics. We have different responsibilities that go along; the ethical responsibilities to clients, colleagues, our practice setting, as professionals, to the profession and as well as to the society as a whole. This scenario about Frank and his client could very well become a scenario that happens to me in this career in the future. There are five parts to the Ethical Decision making model, Examining, Thinking, Hypothesizing, Identifying, as well as Consulting. This is how we as social workers can maintain good ethical standards.

Examining the personal, societal, agency, client, and professional values of this example; Frank seems to have the value of service in mind. He seems to think that this is his client and he should be the one making sure they are taken care of, even if it is after hours.

In this scenario it is difficult to determine If it is really best to see the client by yourself after hours. Or if you should be referring the client to the crisis line for your safety, and the responsibility to your agency. The client would benefit if he is able to see Frank because of routine and knowing and trusting him already. In making the client go to a different social worker, the client could regress depending on the client’s needs. Frank would benefit in the scenario of speaking with his supervisor before making drastic decisions such as letting a client like this come in after everyone else has left the office. Frank could potentially be accused of a duel relationship with the client. In all, it is important to make the best decision for the client, but protecting yourself in the