Christian Values and Ethical Values in the Professionalized Social Work Practice

Abstract

Within this theoretical analysis, we will approach social work as a professional practice starting from these six values stated by NASW - service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence - which the specialized literature also considers as a starting point in understanding and deepening social work. It is valuable to understand how the social work of the 21st century, under the pressure of continuous socio-economic changes, is still grounded in biblical teaching, which over time has supported humanity's understanding of human value, of the intrinsic dignity of every human being as he is created in the image and likeness of God. Each value that guides the NASW practice will be briefly analyzed, considering their relationship of interdependence. We observe, therefore, how each value that underpins social work, as developed by international practices, supports another grounding value. Both secular and Christian values have an interconnected relationship towards the fulfillment of the highest interest of the person in need.