Ethical values and dilemmas in the work of social sphere employees

Abstract

Background: Modern professional organizations require such researches that are based on certain values. In that context ethics is based on values that guide social workers in their behaviour, decision-making and through relationships with clients, colleagues etc. Ethical issues pervade the work of social workers, as practice often takes place in the context of public welfare systems based on principles of social justice and the public good, and social workers have professional authority in relation to service users. Purpose: To reveal what ethical dilemmas social workers face in their professional activities. Methods: Comparative methods were used in the work, an analysis of ethical codes in professional associations' social work documents in different countries was carried out. Results: In their work, social workers must adhere to ethical standards. However, an ethical dilemma arises when a social worker is faced with one or more conflicting values. For example, the dilemma of intervention or non-intervention. In modern social work, there is a lack of attempts to formulate practical recommendations for social workers who are faced with difficult situations. Conclusion: Key values and principles can come into conflict, and social workers have to make difficult choices about how to act and what role to play. Therefore, the systematic study of ethical dilemmas and the development of practical recommendations can significantly improve the quality of social work. Keywords: social work, ethical values, ethical dilemmas.