California Law and Ethics Practice Exam

According to the NASW Code of Ethics, a social worker's primary responsibility is to do what?

1. Ensure client satisfaction

2. Promote the well-being of clients

3. Maintain professional boundaries

4. Follow organizational policies

The correct answer is: Promote the well-being of clients

The primary responsibility of a social worker, as outlined in the NASW Code of Ethics, is to promote the well-being of clients. This focus on client welfare is fundamental to the practice of social work. It underlines the commitment social workers have to their clients, ensuring that their needs and best interests are at the forefront of all professional activities. The social worker's role involves not just addressing immediate issues but also facilitating long-term well-being and empowerment, which are essential to effective practice. In considering the context of the other choices, ensuring client satisfaction is important but does not encompass the broader mission of promoting well-being. Maintaining professional boundaries is crucial for ethical practice but is a means to an end rather than the ultimate responsibility. Following organizational policies is also necessary as part of professional conduct but should align with the priority of advocating for and supporting clients' well-being. Thus, the emphasis on promoting clients' well-being stands out as the core tenet of a social worker's ethical responsibility.