SECTION .0500 - ETHICAL GUIDELINES

21 NCAC 63 .0501             PURPOSE AND SCOPE

(a)  Ethical principles affecting the practice of social work are rooted in the basic values of society and the social work profession.  The principal objective of the profession of social work is to enhance the dignity and well-being of each individual who seeks its services.  It does so through the use of social work theory and intervention methods including case management, advocacy, community organization, administration, and psychotherapy.

(b)  The primary goal of the rules in this Section is to set forth principles to guide social workers' conduct in their profession.  Violation of these Rules may be considered gross unprofessional conduct and may constitute dishonest practice or incompetence in the practice of social work.  Such violations may result in disciplinary action by the Board.

(c)  The rules in this Section serve as a standard for social workers in their various professional roles, relationships and responsibilities.  Social workers shall consider all the principles in the rules in this Section that bear upon any situation in which ethical judgment is to be exercised, and shall select a course of action consistent with the rules in this Section.

(d)  Upon approval of certification or licensure, each applicant shall review the rules in this Section and return a signed statement to the Board agreeing to abide by these Rules.

History Note:        Authority G S. 90B-6; 90B-11;

Eff. August 1, 1987;

Amended Eff. March 1, 1994;

Temporary Amendment Eff. October 1, 1999;

Amended Eff. September 1, 2005; July 1, 2000;

Pursuant to G.S. 150B-21.3A, rule is necessary without substantive public interest Eff. September 19, 2015.