1. CHAPTER TWO ETHICAL DILEMMAS AND CRITICAL PROCESSES
The Practice of Generalist Social Work (2nd ed.)

2. Key Ideas
Conflicts often exist between social work values and ethical standards.
Ethical decision-making processes can help social workers navigate ethical dilemmas.
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3. 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
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4. 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
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5. 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
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6. 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
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7. Three Common Ethical Dilemmas
Dual relationships
Responsibility to larger society and client well-being
Paternalism and client self-determination
© 2011 Taylor & Francis