Caution 3 presents an ethical dilemma. Barsky (1999) describes an ethical dilemma as one in which there is no specific or intelligible solution that satisfies all variables. An ethical problem typically involves inconsistency among rules, ethics and laws as well as agency policies. Stacey in Case 3 must take special precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of her child. Her ideas, however, are against the law because she feels the child would be more secure with her parents than the foster care system.
The legislation states that parents who abandon their child for an extended period of time without contact are “negligent.” Stacey must place the child in foster care because they have not been involved as parents. Her ideals and beliefs conflict with her social work duties. She believes the family is better equipped to care for the child than foster care (Barsky 2019, 2019). Her belief in the autonomy of the home would allow her to find a way that the child’s parents are respected.
2. a. Integrity. Social workers need to be open and transparent with clients. (Barsky 2019, 2019). Cloris’ case was handled by a social worker. She gave her client their notes to show transparency. The social worker does not cut out negative comments, but instead gives the entire report to Cloris.
b. Service – The social worker puts the interests and opinions of others first (Barsky, 2019,). Social workers need to be able care for clients and not prioritize their own needs.
b. Shainy exhibits scientific inquiry and skill. Her competence is demonstrated by her self-awareness and ability to use the necessary information and abilities in order to accomplish her task efficiently. Through her use of research, she is an example of scientific inquiry.