Introduction
It is not a secret that ethics is one of the critical, significant, and integral components in social work, without which it is impossible to think and act professionally. In addition, the generally accepted set of norms of behavior in the profession is applied regardless of the form and methods of interaction with people – when communicating with an individual or a group. Respect for the opinions and interests of others, generosity, cooperation, and the search for compromise are among the few aspects that must be present in the activities of a social worker. This paper focuses on determining and identifying contrasts between group practice and individual one from the point of view of ethics, as well as the principles of applying several rules, norms, and standards in the context of social activities in group work.
Ethics in Group Practice and Individual Practice: Differences
In general, ethics in the context of group and individual practice has several significant differences. Thus, an individual meeting implies an emphasis exclusively on the experiences and concerns of a client. Mostly, such discussion is based on the fact that an expert cannot share their expertise, sympathize, or show emotions, but instead actively listens to a person, pays attention to their problems, and helps to find a solution. A specialist proceeds from respect for a client’s dignity, human rights, and freedoms proclaimed and guaranteed by state laws and international human rights instruments.
Furthermore, ethical concepts and principles applied to individual cases are also important in working with a group. Consequently, it is vital to take into account the style, format, and ways of addressing not a specific person but several people, assessing the individual characteristics of each and avoiding conflicts. It is imperative to comprehend that ethics in group practice makes itself felt most vividly in terms of interaction with several different, entirely dissimilar people, each of whom needs its approach. One should not forget about cultural, national, and ethnic diversity. Additionally, while one person is telling their story, the rest are touched and worried; they want to share their emotions, and this moment should be taken into account by a social worker. Interaction can take place in the format of support or the form of transfer of personal experience of one participant to another. A group is a potent tool for help, sympathy, and the exchange of opinions on a particular situation; this is where one can get such important feedback.
Confidentiality, Mandated Reporting Requirements, and Group Membership Rules
Firstly, confidentiality is a necessary and obligatory condition for working in a group and one of the fundamental ethical principles in the work of a social worker. The confidentiality framework is necessarily clarified at a first group meeting and, if necessary, reminded in the process of working with clients. In this case, respecting an individual’s right to privacy is a priority (Social workers’ ethical responsibilities to clients, n.d.). For instance, even though participants will inevitably want to share their experience working in a group with loved ones, it is essential to warn them that they may unwittingly give away other people’s secrets.
Secondly, the application of mandated reporting requirements in practice is manifested within the framework of the laws of a particular state. Hence, these rules aim to prevent deviant, socially unacceptable behavior and end abuse at its early stages. A specialist must record and report to law enforcement agencies or the appropriate services to protect citizens’ rights about the suspicions and alleged cases of ill-treatment, carelessness, and neglect. Moreover, it is part of a contract with the state that issues a license to practice.
Thirdly, one should recognize that group membership rules are mandatory conditions for effective and productive interaction with clients. As practice shows, these rules are defined in advance and are consistently applied in group work under any circumstances. In turn, participants and a specialist must show respect, honesty, openness, and objectivity. The freedom of expression of each participant, sincerity and activity, confidentiality and security, the establishment of clear restrictions and prohibitions, and a “stop” rule are crucial moments when working with several people. Moreover, a professional should remember that a group is a microsocium. During a group’s work, participants’ relationships with each other will be formed; various feelings will appear, and conflicts and crises will be possible. There, a social worker can try to change the usual patterns of behavior and ways of responding, using the group’s support and finding new resources.
Conclusion
Summarizing the above, it is necessary to state that the main differences between ethics in terms of individual and group formats of interaction with clients mainly lie in styles, methods, and tactics of communication, as well as the number of participants, different and dissimilar to each other. At any meeting, a specialist is obliged to maintain data confidentiality, document any suspicions, and implement and follow the rules of competent and correct communication at sessions. These are the basic and fundamental elements necessary to work within the framework of professional goals, tasks, and responsibilities.
Reference
Social workers’ ethical responsibilities to clients. (n.d.). National Association of Social Workers. Web.