CHAPTER TWO ETHICAL DILEMMAS AND CRITICAL PROCESSES The Practice of Generalist Social Work (3rd ed.)

Key Ideas Conflicts often exist between social work values and ethical standards. Ethical decision-making processes can help social workers navigate ethical dilemmas. © 2014 Routledge

Values Conflicts and Ethical Dilemmas Individual personal values clash with those of another person or system Ethical dilemmas Person holds two or more values that compete with each other © 2014 Routledge

Dolgoff et al. Ethical Principles Screen Principle 1: Protection of life Principle 2: Equality and inequality Principle 3: Autonomy and freedom Principle 4: Least harm Principle 5: Quality of life Principle 6: Privacy and confidentiality Principle 7: Truthfulness and full disclosure © 2014 Routledge

Reamer’s Steps in Ethical Decision-Making Identify conflicting ethical issues, values, and duties Identify those who are likely to be affected by the decision Identify possible courses of action and their respective risks and benefits Examine reasons in favor of and opposed to each action Consult with colleagues and experts Document decision Monitor and evaluate decision © 2014 Routledge

Strom-Gottfried Strategy for Addressing Ethical Dilemmas Research the literature Consult with others Consider the following: Worst case scenario of options Principles of least harm, justice, and fairness Clinical and ethical implications The process Barriers to acting © 2014 Routledge

Three Common Ethical Dilemmas Dual relationships Responsibility to larger society and client well-being Paternalism and client self-determination © 2014 Routledge