What Are The 6 Work Values That Define Your Career?

The six core work values that serve as the foundation for ethical principles in the field of social work encompass a comprehensive framework. These values are rooted in the profession’s commitment to fostering a just and equitable society. They include:

1. Service: This core value emphasizes the social worker’s dedication to helping individuals and communities in need, with a focus on improving their well-being.

2. Social Justice: Social justice underscores the importance of advocating for fair and equitable treatment for all members of society, particularly those who are marginalized or oppressed.

3. Dignity and Worth of the Person: This value highlights the belief that every individual possesses inherent dignity and value, deserving of respect and consideration regardless of their circumstances.

4. Importance of Human Relationships: Recognizing the significance of human connections, this core value emphasizes the role of meaningful relationships in supporting individuals and fostering positive change within communities.

5. Integrity: Integrity signifies the commitment to maintaining honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all professional interactions and decision-making processes.

6. Competence: Competence underscores the importance of social workers continuously striving to develop and apply their skills, knowledge, and expertise to provide effective and high-quality services.

These six core work values collectively guide social workers in their efforts to address societal challenges and promote the well-being of individuals and communities, ensuring that they uphold the ethical principles that underpin their profession.

Why are the six core values of social work crucial? Ethics and values in social work go beyond mere regulatory compliance. These core principles serve as the moral compass for social workers, ensuring that as they advocate for their clients, they do so in collaboration with them. These values also promote a culture of continuous learning among social workers as they empower individuals and communities to overcome challenges. By upholding these core values, social workers not only fulfill their professional responsibilities but also foster a holistic approach to helping those in need. (Published on May 16, 2021)