Social Work Report: Analysis of Ethical Dilemma in Social Work

This report delves into the role and ethical principles of social work, particularly within the context of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) code of ethics. It examines a specific case study involving a client, Erica, facing an ethical dilemma related to child neglect and potential child abuse. The report highlights the importance of maintaining client confidentiality, upholding social justice, and respecting individuals while navigating complex situations. It emphasizes the need for social workers to balance their professional responsibilities with the well-being of the client and their children, and the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders, including voluntary workers and carers, to provide the best possible care. The report also underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing potential violations of human rights and maintaining professional boundaries. The conclusion summarizes the key ethical principles discussed and their application in the case study, reinforcing the crucial role of social workers in promoting the well-being of individuals and families.

Running head: SOCIAL WORK
SOCIAL WORK
Name of Student
Name of the University
Author Note

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Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................2
Discussion..................................................................................................................................2
Conclusion..................................................................................................................................3
References..................................................................................................................................4

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Introduction
Social work refers to the profession that promotes problem solving, social change, and
empowerment of people for enhancing their wellbeing. In Australia, it is the AASW or the
Australian association of social workers that governs and sets the benchmark for the work of
social workers. The main aim of the paper is to discuss about the different code of ethics of
the AASW governing the work of social workers (Australian Association of Social Workers,
2002). The paper will discuss about the case under study and the different principles that need
to be followed in the case study and discuss about the concept of working in partnership with
clients.
Discussion
In the first meeting with Erica, the code of ethics as laid down by the AASW or the
Australian association of social workers will be followed. According to the code, the main
aim of the social work is to maintain and enhance the well-being of people.
Moreover the values on which the social work is based includes professional integrity,
respect for others and social justice. Moreover the social workers have the responsibility of
maintaining confidentiality of the information shared by the clients. I feel that there is an
ethical dilemma in the case of Erica because she is trying to help her husband on one hand
and she also wants her children to not become victims of child neglect which is presently
being practised by her husband against her children. Therefore in case of the first meeting
with Erica, I will first hear the entire case from her and main confidentiality of information.
However, I feel that the Erica’s children are suffering from potential risks of child abuse or
child neglect. In this case it will become necessary to inform about the same to the

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responsible authorities. I will not hold any bias against Erica as one of the major values on
which social work is based includes respecting others.
At the same time, I will ensure that Erica and her children get the maximum
protection as social work’s main aim is to uphold social justice. I will see if the case involves
any form of violation of human rights on part of any of parties involved (Aasw.asn.au.,
2020). I will also maintain a professional relation with Erica. The concept of working in
partnership with clients in case of social work includes- working with a number of parties
including the voluntary workers, the carers, and other staffs for increasing the resources and
providing the best possible care to the clients. Therefore in case of Erica also, the same
practice will be done to ensure the highest level of care to Erica and her children.
Conclusion
Therefore from the above discussion, the role of a social workers has been
understood. Moreover from the paper, the main ethical principles that needs to be considered
by the ethical workers has been understood, the concept of working in partnership with the
clients and the way the first meeting will be held by the client has been understood.

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References
Aasw.asn.au. (2020). Retrieved 12 March 2020, from
https://www.aasw.asn.au/document/item/1201
Australian Association of Social Workers. (2002). AASW: Code of ethics. Australian
Association of Social Workers.