The NASW has an established Code of Ethics, (1996) for the profession. And the code applies not only to social workers but also to social work students. In addition, social worker must follow the Code regardless of the professional functions they perform, the setting they work in, or the populations they serve. The Code summarizes broad ethical principles that reflect the profession’s core values and establishes a set of specific ethical standards that you should use to guide your social work practice. And the primary mission of the social work profession according to the Code, is “to enhance the human well-being and help meet basic human needs of all people, with particular attention to the needs and empowerment of those who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty”(p.1). The six core values of the profession relate to service, social justice, …show more content…
When making decisions in such matters your primary source should be the Code of Ethics, In addition, you should also consider other sources of information, such as ethical theory, social work theory, relevant laws and regulations, your agency’s policies, other codes that apply, when necessary, any moral-professional judgments that you need to make in order to fully examine the issue at hand. Therefore the Code’s principles and standards should guide in the professional relationship with those you serve, your colleagues, your employers, other individuals and professions, and the community and society as a