What are the principles and standards for behavior that govern actions?

Ethics refers to the principles and standards that guide behavior, particularly in professional contexts. In the field of social work, ethics serves as a framework for making decisions that align with both moral values and professional responsibilities. It encompasses the values, duties, and obligations that social workers must adhere to when interacting with clients, colleagues, and the larger community.

Ethical standards provide guidance on the appropriate conduct expected of social workers and help ensure that they practice in a manner that promotes the well-being and dignity of their clients. This includes maintaining confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, and practicing with cultural competence, among other responsibilities.

While morality often pertains to personal beliefs about right and wrong, ethics provides a more structured approach focusing on the standards set by professional communities. Legislation refers to laws enacted by governments which may govern certain aspects of social work practice, but it does not cover the full scope of ethical considerations. Guidelines can offer recommendations or suggestions for practice, but ethics is more foundational, governing actions based on agreed-upon principles established within the profession. Thus, ethics is the most appropriate term to describe the principles and standards that guide behavior in social work and other professional fields.