The purpose of this assignment is two-fold. One, it helps students develop a personal statement describing the student’s interest in social work as a profession, and second, help students clarify their values in relation to the social work profession’s values. This assignment is designed to enhance the students’ self-awareness of their personal values and beliefs and assess their compatibility to the social work profession. The social worker’s personal values should be compatible with the values of the social work profession.
Please complete this personal statement by adequately addressing each of the items listed below. Criteria that will be considered in evaluating this assignment include its completeness in response to the instructions, the thoughtfulness of your answers, and demonstrated writing skills (grammar, spelling). Proofread it carefully and correct any grammar and/or punctuation errors before submitting your work. The assignment should be 5-7 pages and follow the American Psychological Association (APA) formatting.
1. Explain and discuss your personal values, as well as who and/or what you feel influenced you the most in forming your values. In addition, identify the values that lead you to pursue a career in social work.
2. Discuss how your values fit with social work values, for example, what are the similarities? Are there values that are different than your own? If so, how will you rectify those in a professional manner?
3. Explain how you feel your values and the profession’s values will influence your role as a social worker. Include in your discussion the six core values and principles of social work.
4. Discuss the client(s) that you feel may be problematic or difficult for you to work with and explain why. How do you think your values would affect your work with them? How might you resolve this dilemma?
5. Read the NASW Code of Ethics and discuss it briefly in this section of the essay. Your discussion should first address the Overview section of the Code and the Purpose section (What is the Code and what is its purpose in social work?). Then select one Ethical Principle or Ethical Standard, discuss it briefly and how you would apply it in your professional work as a social worker with clients.
6. Social workers are expected to abide by the NASW Code of Ethics, which governs their relationships with clients. One of the guiding principles of this code is the dignity and worth of each individual. Based upon your understanding of this concept, describe how you would use it in social work practice.
