Ethical Decision Making, the NASW Code of Ethics and Group Work Practice

Abstract

This paper explores the relationship between ethical decision making in group work practice and the NASW Code of Ethics. It raises the question of whether the Code sufficiently addresses the specific ethical issues and challenges confronting social workers engaged in group practice. Self-determination, confidentiality, and informed consent are reviewed from the perspective of potential ethical dilemmas for group workers. The authors suggest that there be further exploration focusing on the extent to which group workers experience such ethical dilemmas, find guidance in the NASW Code, and/or utilize other resources for decision making. The possible need for an auxiliary code of ethics or other mechanisms for guidance also is discussed.