What is one key ethical principle guiding social work?

The key ethical principle guiding social work is autonomy. Autonomy emphasizes the importance of respecting an individual’s right to make their own choices and govern their own lives. In social work practice, this principle is crucial as it underlines the necessity of empowering clients to make informed decisions regarding their own circumstances and well-being. Social workers strive to support their clients in achieving independence and self-determination, allowing individuals to be active participants in their own lives and in the process of shaping their futures.

While justice, beneficence, and fidelity are also important ethical principles in the context of social work, they serve slightly different functions. Justice pertains to fairness and the equitable distribution of resources, beneficence refers to the obligation to act in the best interest of clients and contribute to their well-being, and fidelity highlights the importance of being trustworthy and maintaining professional relationships. However, autonomy is the foundation that ensures clients' rights and choices are respected, which is central to effective social work practice.