Strategies for Prevention

Do a “gut check.” Slow down and look at the whole picture. Does this look like an ethical dilemma?

Know what you’re looking for. This site is designed to help you recognize misrepresentation when you see it. Learn common ways it shows up in social work practice.

Turn to your community. Surround yourself with other social workers who can help you decide if you’re committing misrepresentation or not.

Trust your education. A good social work program will prepare students to navigate ethical questions and concerns.

(Shdaimah & Strier, 2020)

Use the Code of Ethics. Most ethical dilemmas are not actually unsolvable. Start with the Code of Ethics, and you’re closer to the right answers.

(Reamer, 2015)