Hierarchies of Ethical Principles for Ethical Decision Making in Social Work

Abstract

Social workers frequently encounter ethical dilemmas in their daily practice. This paper examines the utility of hierarchies of ethical principles as tools for ethical decision making. Because of limited research on this topic, the degree of agreement on ordering of ethical principles is unknown. This paper presents illustrative data that suggest variability in individual hierarchies and priorities, which may depend on the circumstances of a situation. Recommendations for using hierarchies of ethical principles in social work education and practice are discussed and a detailed example of how different hierarchies may lead to making different decisions is provided.

Keywords:

• Ethical Decision Making
• Ethical Principles
• Hierarchy of Ethical Principles
• Social Work Education

Notes

¹The approach used by Loewenberg and Dolgoff has been used consistently in recent editions of their book up through and including Dolgoff et al. (2009).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Donna Harrington

Donna Harrington is professor and doctoral program director

Ralph Dolgoff

Ralph Dolgoff is professor at the University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore