Social Work Ethics

Ethics play a huge role in the life of a social worker but how can you work this into a dissertation? Maybe you would like to discuss the ethical practices in a past case or discuss the ethics of end of life care. If you are not to sure how you can decide on a topic relating to ethics, these suggestions may be of use to you:

Example social work ethics dissertation topic 1:

End of life decisions: The role of the social worker

The population of the United Kingdom is an ageing one. Movements for euthanasia have strengthened public awareness of end of life decisions and social workers can sometimes be at the centre of service users’ wish to cease living. This dissertation examines the legal position of social workers in end of life decisions, as well as the ethical and emotional ramifications of calls thereof. The study reviews the training options currently given in the arena both to social work students, and to existing social workers through continuing professional development seminars and programmes. Finally, it draws up recommendations for the means by which social workers can clarify their roles, and provides links to the support available for those in such situations.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Christ, G.H. and Sormanti, M. (2008) ‘Advancing social work practice in end-of-life care’, Social Work in Health Care, Vol. 30(2), pp. 81-99.
• Csikai, E.L. (1999) ‘The role of values and experience in determining social workers’ attitudes toward euthanasia and assisted suicide’, Social Work Health Care, Vol. 30(1), pp.75-95.
• Dolgoff, R., Harrington, D. and Loewenberg, F.M. (eds) (2012). Ethical decisions for social work practice (9th edn). Belmont, CA: Cengage Learning.