What action should a social worker take if they encounter ethical conflicts with agency policies?

When a social worker encounters ethical conflicts with agency policies, discussing the conflict with supervisors is the most appropriate action. This approach aligns with the ethical standards outlined in many professional codes, which emphasize the importance of seeking guidance, supervision, and consultation when faced with dilemmas. Engaging in dialogue with supervisors allows the social worker to explore the ethical implications of the conflict, understand the agency’s rationale for its policies, and work collaboratively toward a resolution that upholds ethical practices in client care.

This process also fosters an environment of transparency and accountability, which is essential for ethical practice. It shows a commitment to addressing ethical concerns responsibly rather than dismissing them or acting unilaterally. By initiating a conversation, the social worker can advocate for necessary changes to policies or work towards a solution that prioritizes client welfare while remaining within the bounds of institutional guidelines.

In contrast, ignoring the conflict and proceeding with practice could lead to unintended harm to clients or ethical violations, and leading a team meeting without addressing the issue would fail to engage team members in resolving the conflict. Changing agencies immediately might not resolve the underlying ethical concerns and could also disrupt client services. Thus, engaging supervisors is the most constructive and professional response to resolving such conflicts.