NASW Code of Ethics
“This ethical principle emphasizes promoting client independence and choice.”
What is self-determination?
“First step in analyzing an ethical dilemma.”
What is clearly defining the dilemma?
“A dual relationship becomes unethical when this risk increases.”
What is risk of impaired judgment or harm?
“Information shared by the client is confidential except in cases involving harm to _____.”
Self, others, or vulnerable individuals
“A client refuses treatment you believe would help them. Which principle applies?”
Self-determination (client autonomy).
“This standard requires social workers to practice only within their areas of training and experience.”
What is 1.04 Competence?
“A true ethical dilemma exists when ______.”
When two ethical obligations conflict and you cannot fulfill one without compromising another.
“True or False: It’s always unethical to see a client outside the office.”
False — context, intention, and power dynamics matter.
“True or False: Social workers can share client info with other professionals without consent.”
Answer: False, unless required for safety or mandated reporting.
False, unless required for safety or mandated reporting.
“A colleague posts vague client info on Facebook. What should you do?”
Address it directly with them first, if feasible (per NASW 2.05).
“Name the ethical principle that directs social workers to challenge injustice.”
What is social justice?
“Name one ethical decision-making model used in social work.”
What is Reamer, Dolgoff, ETHIC model, or NASW model?
“A client offers a small handmade gift. Which NASW concept guides your response?”
What is boundaries & conflicts of interest
“Name the principle guiding decisions about sharing the least amount of client information possible.”
Minimal disclosure / least intrusive disclosure.
A teen discloses substance use but insists you not tell their parents. What is your next step?”
Assess immediate safety & explain confidentiality limits.
“This section of the Code outlines when a breach of confidentiality is permitted.”
What is 1.07 Privacy and Confidentiality?
“This component of dilemma analysis focuses on who is affected and how.”
What is identifying stakeholders?
“Name one strategy to maintain boundaries with clients.”
Examples: clear communication, consistent policies, supervision, documentation.
“A client reports abuse of a child in another household. What is your obligation?”
Answer: What is mandated reporting?
“A client wants you to testify in court on their behalf. Your responsibility is to ensure your role is ______.”
Clear, professional, unbiased, and within competence.
“The Code states that social workers should use this skill set to understand diversity and avoid imposing personal values.”
What is cultural humility / cultural competence (1.05)?
“The final step in an ethical analysis after selecting an action.”
What is evaluating the outcome and documenting your reasoning?
“You feel personally drawn to a client in a way that may cloud judgment. What should you do first?”
What is seek supervision/consultation?
“When a client threatens serious harm to someone else, the worker’s duty extends to warning or protecting the intended victim. What is this called?”
Duty to warn / Tarasoff duty to protect
You realize your personal values conflict with a client’s choices. What ethical responsibility do you have?”
Manage personal values, avoid imposing beliefs, seek supervision