Moral Regret in Mental Health Social Work

Abstract

This paper discusses ethical issues related to social work practice in the area of mental health. It does so via the use of a case study taken from my practice whilst I was on placement. Ethical issues are explored within a practice context that is becoming increasingly proceduralised and risk averse, and where protectionist responses contribute to undermining the rights of service users to self-determination. The paper explores the relationship between utilitarian and Kantian ethical theory and ethical decision-making as well as commenting on the usefulness of an anti-oppressive ethical perspective.

Keywords:

• Social Work Practice
• Mental Health
• Ethics
• Utilitarianism
• Anti-Oppressive
• Risk
• Stigma

Notes

1. STORM (Skills-based Training On Risk Management) is an evidence-based skills training package in suicide prevention for all frontline workers across primary and secondary care, social care and the criminal justice system.