Chapter 12: Ethics and Ethical Dilemmas in Practice with Organizations and Communities
April 7, 2026 • 22:16
Chapter 12, “Ethics and Ethical Dilemmas in Practice with Organizations and Communities,” explores the application of the NASW Code of Ethics within the often-ambiguous landscape of macro systems. This episode details social workers’ ethical responsibilities toward clients, colleagues, practice settings, and the broader society, while also examining international social work principles and the importance of maintaining ethical boundaries when addressing spirituality. We introduce structured ethical reasoning strategies, including the Ethical Principles Screen, to help practitioners rank values when faced with conflicting mandates. The discussion delves into complex macro-level dilemmas such as the equitable distribution of limited resources, the ethical weight of negative responsibility, and the risks associated with whistle-blowing and co-optation. By mastering these frameworks, generalist practitioners can better manage their personal values and ensure professional ethics guide their efforts to advance social, economic, and environmental justice.