Emphasizing Professionalism and Values-Based Competencies in Human Services Education

ABSTRACT

Within the education of students pursuing a career in human services, social work, or other helping professions, there has historically been a divide between the emphasis in training placed on content and values-based competencies, often referred to as professionalism. This article will define these competencies and emphasize the importance of values-based priorities in the training of helping professionals. Suggestions will be offered for providing a context to integrate these principles into educational standards and practices. Implications for how emphasizing professionalism promotes the success of community college students pursuing further education and gaining entrance into the helping professions will also be discussed, especially in light of changing trends in higher education.