Assignment on Ethical Dilemma

Assignment on Ethical Dilemma

Purpose

A social work ethical dilemma occurs when a social worker faces a situation in which they must navigate conflicting values, responsibilities, or obligations. These dilemmas often require balancing client needs, professional ethics, and legal considerations.

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Guidelines

Include the following components:

1. Read the Case Study:

Case Study:

You are working with a 17-year-old client who is attending therapy for depression and anxiety. During a session, the client confides that they have been experiencing thoughts of self-harm but insists they do not want you to tell anyone, including their parents, because they are afraid of being sent to a psychiatric facility. The client assures you they are not in immediate danger and promises to reach out if their feelings worsen. You are concerned about the client’s safety but also want to respect their confidentiality.

Assignment on Ethical Dilemma

2. Analyze the Dilemma:

Reflect on the following questions:

What ethical principles and standards are at stake in this scenario?

How does confidentiality apply, and what are the limits in this situation?

What role does the client’s age play in your decision-making?

What are the potential risks and benefits of breaching confidentiality versus maintaining it?

3. Research Ethical Standards and Laws:

Review the NASW Code of Ethics, focusing on sections related to confidentiality, client safety, and minors.

Investigate any state or federal laws regarding the duty to warn, duty to protect, and working with minors.

Assignment on Ethical Dilemma

4. Develop a Decision-Making Framework:

Outline a step-by-step process you would use to address this dilemma, including:

Consulting with a supervisor or legal expert.

Assessing the severity and immediacy of the client’s risk.

Weighing your professional responsibility to the client against your duty to protect them from harm.

5. Write a Policy and Action Plan:

Develop a 2-3 page report that includes:

A summary of the ethical dilemma.

The ethical principles and legal considerations involved.

Your decision-making process and rationale for the actions you would take.

A plan for communicating with clients and their families while maintaining professionalism and compassion.

Include the reflection page below. This will make it 3-5 pages.

Assignment on Ethical Dilemma

6. Reflect on Your Experience:

Include a one-page reflection on how this assignment deepens your understanding of confidentiality and safety in social work and what skills you would like to strengthen for handling similar dilemmas.

Evaluation Criteria:

Clear identification of ethical conflicts and principles.

Accurate application of the NASW Code of Ethics and legal standards.

Logical and thoughtful decision-making framework.

Compassionate and professional communication plan.

Depth of personal reflection and growth.

This assignment emphasizes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and professional responsibility, equipping interns to navigate difficult real-world situations while prioritizing client welfare.