LMSW Social Work Ethics and Values Questions and Answers Flashcards
6 cards from real LMSW practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 LMSW Social Work Ethics and Values Questions and Answers flashcards as text
A social worker discovers that a colleague is billing Medicaid for sessions that never occurred. What is the social worker's primary ethical obligation?
Answer: Report the behavior through appropriate channels
The NASW Code of Ethics obligates social workers to take action when a colleague's conduct is illegal or unethical, which includes reporting fraudulent billing.
Which ethical principle is most directly violated when a social worker begins a romantic relationship with a former client six months after termination?
Answer: Dual relationships boundary violation
The NASW Code of Ethics strongly discourages sexual or romantic relationships with former clients and requires social workers to examine potential harm, given the power imbalance that persists.
A client asks their LMSW to write a letter of support for a custody case. The social worker has concerns about the client's parenting. What should the social worker do?
Answer: Discuss the concerns honestly with the client before deciding whether to write the letter
Informed consent and honesty require the social worker to disclose relevant concerns to the client and engage in a transparent discussion before taking action that could affect the client's case.
Under the NASW Code of Ethics, which of the following best describes the concept of 'informed consent' in social work practice?
Answer: Clients must be provided with information in a way they can understand so they can make voluntary decisions about services
Informed consent requires social workers to use clear, understandable language to ensure clients can make voluntary, knowledgeable decisions about their participation in services.
A social worker is treating a client who discloses they are undocumented and fears deportation. The social worker's primary ethical obligation is to:
Answer: Maintain confidentiality and continue providing competent services
Social workers must uphold confidentiality and provide services regardless of immigration status, consistent with the NASW values of dignity, worth of the person, and social justice.
A client of a different cultural background declines a recommended mental health referral, citing cultural stigma around mental illness. The ethical response is to:
Answer: Respect the client's autonomy while exploring culturally congruent alternatives
Culturally competent practice requires social workers to honor client self-determination and explore alternatives that align with the client's cultural values and preferences.