Discussion1: Personal and Professional Social Work Values

Heterosexism is defined as "thediscrimination or prejudice by heterosexuals against homosexuals" (merriam-webster.com) and is predicated on the belief that being heterosexual is the norm and the only accepted type of relationship.

Everyday heterosexism is exemplified in our media, our policies, and daily practices. By making these assumptions, social workers can be in part culpable for the oppression and marginalization experienced by the LGBTQ community.

As a profession, social work embraces diversity and strives to ensure equal rights for all. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is committed to supporting the needs of these groups and, in turn, they created the National Committee on Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Issues. During this week's discussion you will be asked to consider how one's own personal views on sexual orientation may clash with the profession's stance.

Post a scenario of how a social worker's personal, ethical, and moral values in relation to the LGBTQ community might conflict with those of their clients.

Explain the distinction between personal ethics and values and professional ethics and values evident in the social work profession in addressing this community.

Be specific and explain how this distinction relates to the scenario you posted.

Also explain how prejudice and bias might create barriers to fulfilling your professional responsibility to the LGBTQ community.

References (use at least 2)

Adams, M., Blumenfeld, W. J., Castaneda, C., Hackman, H. W., Peters, M. L., & Zuniga, X. (Eds.). (2013). Readings for diversity and social justice. (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Routledge Press.

Clinton, H. R. (2011). United Nations Address on Global LGBT Rights. U.S. Department of State. Retrieved from http://iipdigital.usembassy.gov/st/english/texttrans/2011/12/20111206180616su0.4842885.html#axzz2zeJtVRfq

It Gets Better Project. (n.d.). It gets better. Retrieved September 6, 2013, from: http://www.itgetsbetter.org/

Discussion 2: Moral Development Theory and Bullying

Bullying is not a new phenomenon, but social media and communication technologies have introduced a breadth and depth to which public shaming, targeted taunting, and bullying have manifested. For this Discussion, consider how bullying has changed and how it has remained the same in light of modern technology.

Post an explanation of one moral development theory and its connection to the act of bullying.

Be sure to frame your explanation within the context of cyber and other bullying that persists in social media and communication technologies used by adolescents.

Also explain how bullying has changed and how it has remained the same in light of modern technology.

References (use at least 2)

Zastrow, C. H., & Kirst-Ashman, K. K. (2016). Understanding human behavior and the social environment (10th ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage Learning.
Chapter 8 (pp. 376-422)


Glasser, L., & Keller, M. (2009). Are the competent the morally good? Perspective taking and moral motivation of children involved in bullying. Social Development, 18(4), 798-816. Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.

Discussion 3: Bullying: Cycle of Events

Bearing witness to trauma has its own set of consequences. Watching repeated episodes of bullying can evoke strong emotional and behavioral responses from an adolescent. During the impressionable stage of social development in adolescents, these experiences can contribute to a change in perception about the ways people should and do treat each other. Furthermore, ongoing exposure to this behavior can jeopardize an adolescent's healthy social development. For this Discussion, consider how the act of bullying experienced by one adolescent may change the experience of another who witnesses it.

Post a scenario that illustrates how bullying experienced by one adolescent may change the experience of another who witnesses it.
Then address the availability of any social work intervention, skill, or practice that might change this cycle of events.

References (use at least 2)

Pace, U., & Zappulla, C. (2011). Problem behaviors in adolescence: The opposite role played by insecure attachment and commitment strength. Journal of Child & Family Studies, 20(6), 854-862.

Dempsey, A. G., Sulkowski, M. L., Nichols, R., & Storch, E. A. (2009). Differences between peer victimization in cyber and physical settings and associated psychosocial adjustment in early adolescence. Psychology in the Schools, 46(10), 962-972. Retrieved from the Walden Library databases