Ethics for Social Work

The purpose of this course is to increase the social work professional's knowledge base about ethical theories, principles, and the application of these principles to social work practice. A historical context of ethics in social work and in the larger context of the helping professions, such as nursing and other human service areas, will be explored. The course will also examine the specific components of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics, ethical theories, ethical decision-making processes, the psychological context of moral development, and multiculturalism and ethics. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:


1. Discuss the historical context of ethics in social work and the emergence of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics.

2. Define common terms such as ethics, morality, ethical dilemmas, and ethical principles.

3. Identify the purpose and functions of the NASW Code of Ethics.

4. Differentiate between deontologic, teleologic, motivist, natural law, transcultural ethical, and ethical relativism theories.

5. Discuss the relationship between ethical theories and the NASW Code of Ethics.

6. Identify the different ethical decision-making models.

7. Discuss the psychologic context of ethical decision making by applying Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development.

8. Discuss ethical issues that emerge with social work practice under managed care systems.


This 6-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.