1. Ethical Dilemma OutlineThese things happen : Confronting
dualresponsibilityBy Adee Isaac
2. Relevant case data and your role inworking with the client
system Client is referred for depression when in fact she is a
victim ofabuse Client is Christian and believes in church teachings
the legitimized dual role that is shared between social workand the
church Interference with Pastors work Compromising church
relationship and other ministries 3. Identifying the problem and
contributingfactors Nancy is a victim of physical and emotional
abuse; no family and social support. churchs agenda is contrary to
the needs of the client. The client is forced to suppress her needs
and her safety to meet the criteriaof her church. Hector is a
social worker who is facing a dilemma while making a
professionaldecision. Torn between meeting the needs of his client
and maintaining loyalty to thechurch and its spiritual teachings.
4. Identifying ethical issues, socialwork values and duties
thatconflict Professional commitment requires that worker must
placeservicing clients needs above all other interest (Standard
1.01 ofthe Code of Ethics), Decision might conflict with ministry
and his position in thechurch. Decision might also interfere with
clients/church beliefs and ofthe referring work Pastor. 5. What is
at stake ? Clients safety Childs safety Choosing between addressing
the problem appropriately and interfering inthe work of his
colleague, Questioning the teachings of the church and jeopardizing
his ministry at thechurch. Clients confidentiality Risking
relationships that exist between the two churches 6. Identify all
possible courses of actionand participants involvement Maintaining
abused victim in a safe place Report the matter to the proper
authorities. Encourage Nancy to speak to Pastor Hold abuser
accountable for his action Referral to counseling and other
specializedservices 7. In favor of and opposed to possiblecourse of
action. Benefits and risks Congruency with the Code of Ethic, the
social worker should keepon focus Standard 1.01 and standard 6.04
of the Code Suggested Framework The Ethnic-sensitive Perspective
The Feminist Perspective. Ensure safety Integrate the church
community as a potential helping resource. 8. Consult with
colleagues and appropriateexperts Obtaining clients consent
Consulting with colleagues Referral to appropriate experts 9. Make
the decision and document thedecision-making process. Confront the
sexist attitude associated with the churchdenomination. Protect the
vulnerable 10. References: Hugen, Beryl. Christianity and Social
Work: Readings on theIntegration of Christian Faith and Social Work
Practice.Botsford, CT: North American Association of Christians in
SocialWork, 1998. Print. Sheafor, Bradford W., and Charles R.
Horejsi. Techniques andGuidelines for Social Work Practice. Boston,
MA: Allyn andBacon, 2006. Print
