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The second section of the NASW Code of Ethics, addresses our responsibilities to colleagues. Standards in this section provide instructions on being respectful, maintaining confidentiality, collaborating, resolving disputes, consulting, refraining from sexual relationships and harassment, and addressing impairment, incompetence, and unethical conduct of colleagues. It is the latter three that will be focused on in this article.
If a social worker notices that a colleague has demonstrated impairment, incompetence, or unethical conduct, the Code’s direction is to first discuss this with the colleague, when feasible. It is recognized this may not always be feasible or likely to be productive. If bringing the concerns to the colleague is not effective or was not feasible/likely to be productive, social workers are then to “take action through appropriate channels”. These action steps may include reporting the concern through agency/employer policies and procedures, licensing boards and/or committees, professional organizations, and other regulatory bodies. Please note that one’s obligation may require reporting the behavior to through multiple means.
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