Discussion 1: Title Protection and Licensure

When one pictures a doctor sitting at her office desk, it seems natural to imagine multiple diplomas on the wall nearby. The notion of doctors displaying their credentials seems indisputable when one considers the importance of professional credibility in instilling trust in patients.

Just as medical practitioners are responsible for achieving and maintaining proper licensure, so are social work professionals. Those who receive the title of "social worker" have met the criteria developed to demonstrate proficiency in meeting the demands associated with the profession.

For this Discussion, research the criteria for assuming the title of social worker in your state or country. Consider benefits offered by title protection and maintenance of licensure standards. Also think about the challenges that title protection and licensure standards may pose

Discussion 2: Ethical Questions

Although students of social work have not yet satisfied the criteria to earn the title of "social worker," they are bound by the same ethical requirements as titled social workers. Social workers regularly face ethical issues of varying magnitude, and social work students may as well. Some issues seem obvious, while others may emerge in subtle ways.

For this Discussion, select one of the following scenarios. Consider the dilemma described, and imagine how you might feel if you found yourself in a similar situation. Think about the ethical obligations you would have as a social worker or social work student.