This section is reflective on this week's readings, as a lot of debate surrounds the current Code of Ethics. One of the biggest arguments is that most of the Code of Ethics is based on Western values which prioritize independence of individuals and may not reflect on cultures and individuals who value interdependence and community as seen in collectivists societies.

As an Intake Screener for a non-profit organization, who connects clients to behavior health and substance use programs, I am constantly having ensure that potential clients can access services in which they are seeking, this means finding counseling office locations closest to their place of residence. Additionally, as an Intake Screener, I need to acknowledge different cultures and coordinate services that best makes the client feel most comfortable--for example, if they are survivors of domestic violence/assult, it is my duty to ensure the client is aware the counselor is a male or female and ask them if they feel comfortable with this. Likewise, if someone is of minority race or ethnicity, for example, if a client is African American, they may feel comfortable having a counselor that matches their race/ethnicity.

As mentioned in earlier annotations, social workers are obligated to provide advocacy and assist their clients with social changes that benefit their own needs and concerns, but what might benefit others in their community.

When deciding on the best course of action, social workers must be aware and acknowledge that their ethical decisions/obligations regarding a client and their case is not easy and may conflict with their employers and/or the state laws in which they practice. Social workers also have to be aware of their own biases, ethics and values in order to make the best decision they can that benefits all who are involved. Therefore it is important for social workers to gather as much information and seek appropriate and proper guidance from supervisors, experts, and other professionals where applicable.

All ethical decision-making should be done and executed with the best professional judgement of the social worker and consider the implications their decisions may have for their clients, their practice and other individuals involved.

NASW Code of Ethics help guide social workers in maintaining professional values and upholding the mission and duty of the profession; in other words, it guides professional on how to best handle and practice on clients. It is also important to note that the NASW Code of Ethics are applicable for ALL social workers--both professionals and students.

Social workers must also acknowledge the environment factors that play a role in their client's current life challenges and need to advocate for them. Social work operates at a biopsychosocial perspective acknowledging how many factors (biological, psychological, and social) can affect their clients.

Social workers are obligated to help those who are vulnerable and often are not heard by the most powerful members in societies. Social workers must not only assist clients with their immediate needs, but must encourage and empower their clients to advocate for themselves and others.

The Code of Ethics helps social workers understand professional guidelines that allow them to conduct themselves to the highest professional standards.