ABSTRACT This theoretical study provides a multidisciplinary perspective on the phenomenon of altruism with the aim of reflecting on its significance in the social work profession. Considering its origins in religious traditions, the authors point to its significance within Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Subsequently, the importance of altruism within philosophical concepts, developmental psychology and, last but not least, personality psychology is presented. As social work adopts insights from other disciplines, the authors do not neglect to emphasize altruistic concepts in the context of maintaining professional ethics related to professional boundaries in the social worker-client relationship. The aim is also to highlight the reflection of altruism in an interdisciplinary context that can contribute to the strengthening of the relationship between social workers and clients, which can contribute to good social work practice.
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