Ethical Decision Making

Ethical Decision-Making Model

 

  1. Identify the ethical issues, including the social work values and ethics that conflict.

 

  1. Identify the individuals, groups, and organizations that are likely to be affected by the ethical decision.

 

  1. Identify all possible courses of action and the participants involved in each (benefits and risks).

 

  1. Examine the reasons in favor of and opposed to possible course of action considering relevant ethical theories, principles, guidelines, codes of ethics and legal principles, social work practice theory and principles, and personal values.

 

  1. Consult with colleagues and appropriate experts.

 

  1. Monitor, evaluate, and document the decision.