Values and Ethics in Social Work
- Chris Beckett - University of East Anglia, UK
- Andrew Maynard - Anglia Ruskin University, UK
- Peter Jordan - University of East Anglia, UK
This Third Edition is set out in two parts:
- Part I deals with broad ideas about values and ethics in general, looking at philosophy, religion and politics, as well as the duty of realism.
- Part II takes the discussion further, looking at how these general principles are relevant to everyday practice, with chapters on the use and misuse of power, the idea of self-determination, and the challenges of working with people whose experience and outlook are different to one’s own.
Without hesitation, I have recommended previous editions of this text to undergraduate students on the social work course. It is a highly readable and accessible text, focusing upon core concepts that should be intrinsic to every social work practitioner. All authors are candid and reflect well on their professional experiences as well as giving a good overview on topics such as the development of values and power. I also really valued the chapters examining philosophy and religious beliefs; the latter, in particular, is often missing from texts on values and ethics and yet remains core to many practitioners and those with whom they work.
Values and ethics in Social Work’ is an essential source for student social workers. Its clarity and accessibility make it an invaluable learning source.
This is an accessible and well-structured read. Whilst having 'social work' in the title, this book is aimed at a broad audience of social policy, social science, social care as well as social work students and practitioners. It is an up-to-date book, encouraging reflection and analysis, for students and practitioners .
My colleague used this text to underpin her course Values Ethics and Diversity in the F2F BA 1 Social Work module, which I have been converting to blended learning for the Social Work Apprenticeship Degree. The text is packed with 'everyday' examples of the kinds of issues which could (and do) influence poor decision making, even if they are subliminal. The book supports the student to gain a wide ranging knowledge and and understanding of values and ethics in theory and practice. In an era when Values and Ethics are frequently debased by financially led decisions, particularly in assessments, and social workers' mental health and their practice is being undermined by pressure to not identify service users needs because that then requires a service, which has to be funded, this book clearly sets out the fundamentals of what we as educators and practitioners should be placing centre stage and imbuing our students with the confidence to uphold core values and ethics in the profession.
A clear, succinct book that will support students in all areas of social care.
Excellent and easy to follow the text in this book. The building on examples that have been introduced in easy to understand discussions is workwhile for students to learn about the aspects which they will encounter in their own experience building.
This is essential reading for every social work student. It is detailed, readable and thought provoking and I recommend this text above all others.
