Discussion 1: Integrity in Social Work
It seems easy to commit to upholding integrity in social work. You might imagine a flagrant lack of integrity in a social work situation and think to yourself, "I would never do that." Not all situations are immediately clear, though, and you may find yourself wondering what the "right thing to do" really is. In cases like this, it can be helpful to have a trusted colleague or mentor to whom you can turn and confidentially share your concern. It is also critical, however, to keep a keen eye on your internal sense of social work ethics.
For this Discussion, select one of the case studies from this week's Readings (http://www.socialworkers.org/pubs/code/code.asp).
Review the NASW Code of Ethics. Consider whether the behavior of the social worker in the case demonstrated competence in accordance with the NASW Code of Ethics.
Post a critical review of the social worker's competence in terms of the NASW Code of Ethics.
Identify at least two attributes or behaviors displayed by the social worker and explain how they upheld or contradicted the NASW Code of Ethics.
Discussion 2: Mezzo Skills: Group Roles
During recent meetings with your sexual assault survivor group, you have noticed some potentially counter-productive behaviors from some of the members. One member always wants to sit next to you. When you speak, she nods her head and, at times, she repeats your very words. Two members always sit together and have side conversations. You have not said anything yet to them, but you feel it is distracting to the others. When you ask them to participate, they both provide little input and often just shrug their shoulders. One member talks at length during every session, forcing you to interrupt her by asking others to contribute to the discussion. You need to set boundaries with this person or she will continue to dominate the entire session.
Behaviors in group settings often are manifestations of the roles members play based on their personality. While groups have many benefits for clients, including validation, support, comfort, and education, they also can highlight some personalities and behaviors that might be challenging for you to manage as the group leader. How might you respond to these behaviors and roles? How might you redirect these behaviors and reposition the member roles for the benefit of the group?
For this Discussion, review this week's Resources. Search the Library for an article dealing with group roles in social work practice.
Then, consider the group member role that might be most challenging to you as a group leader and why.
Finally, think about skills you might use for overcoming the challenges that member role presents.
Post a brief description of the group member role that might be most challenging to you as a group leader and explain why. Then, explain a skill you might use for overcoming that challenge.