What are social workers required to do when they face ethical dilemmas?

Social workers are required to use ethical decision-making frameworks and consult with colleagues when faced with ethical dilemmas. This approach is essential as it establishes a systematic method for navigating complex situations that involve competing values or ethical principles. Utilizing ethical decision-making frameworks helps social workers analyze the dilemma critically, consider the implications for the individuals involved, and weigh the potential consequences of different actions.

Consulting with colleagues serves multiple purposes; it not only allows for the sharing of diverse perspectives and experiences, which can lead to more informed decisions, but also fosters a collaborative environment that is vital in the field of social work. Collaboration can help to mitigate biases and enrich the decision-making process by incorporating various viewpoints.

Options that suggest ignoring dilemmas or making decisions based solely on personal opinions do not adhere to the ethical standards set forth in the Social Work Code of Ethics. Social workers are expected to act professionally and responsibly, grounding their decisions in established ethical principles rather than personal biases. While consulting only with a supervisor may offer guidance, it can limit the diversity of input and may not encompass all aspects of the situation, which is why a broader consultation with colleagues is encouraged.