CASE STUDY

Case Study for Values and Ethical Practice

Case Study for Values and Ethical Practice

Introduction

This paper analyses a case study for values and ethics. The assignment begins with an overview of the case, followed by a theoretical review of the values of social work. Moreover, a personal reflection on the case along with the application of social and ethical values on the case is presented.

Overview of the Case

The case is about a sixteen year old boy, Kieran. He lives in a rural part of North Norfolk with his parents. The Education Welfare Officer at Kieran's School has recommended that Kieran should visit the Duty and Assessment Team due to some of the following reasons.

Kieran has been reporting late for school over the last six months. He has not met the 85% attendance requirement of the school, although he lives only two roads away. He does not have any school friends and seems to isolate himself from other children of his class. He fought with a school boy and denied instigating it. Few months ago, he revealed to his best friend that he thinks he is gay. He experienced a setback when his best friend announced his suspicion among the other boys of the class.

Kieran used to be a very serene and calm boy. His parents are unable to figure out the reason of this sudden change. He was also found asleep in class and is not his usual self. One night he came home smelling of alcohol. The boy is reluctant to talk to the Education Welfare Officer. When he was interviewed last week, he broke into tears seemed in high agony. Kieran does not feel like talking to anyone about his situation.

Discussion

According to the National Association of Social Workers, "The primary mission of the social work profession is to improve human well-being and help meet basic human needs of all persons, paying particular attention to the needs and empowerment of people who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty. 'Undoubtedly, this is critical work, and if you are motivated to do so, will surely be a career that will bring great personal satisfaction (Howe, 2005, pp. 89-97).

Historically, social workers have worked to eliminate poverty and improve the lives of many. Not only do social workers help the individual, but they have worked for social justice in the larger communities, working toward the elimination of racism, discrimination and other social ills (Horwarth, 2010, pp. 12-89).

Role of Social Work in Children Services

There are a number of specialties in social work, and one can choose for his/her career as a social worker can rely on their own passions, interests and abilities. Social workers can work with individuals, families or couples. They may work with young or old. Some social workers are the principal investigators, working between racks to improve the lives of many, as opposed to working with people (Holland, 2004, pp. 90-113). One may want to consider their own personal interest. Some social workers work in the adult protective ...