What is a key responsibility of social workers regarding competence?

Striving to acquire knowledge relevant to social work is a fundamental responsibility of social workers as outlined in the NASW Code of Ethics. This principle emphasizes the importance of ongoing professional development and lifelong learning, which are essential for maintaining competence and providing high-quality services to clients. Social workers are expected to stay informed about new practices, research findings, and evolving theories that impact their field. By actively seeking out relevant knowledge, social workers can ensure that their skills remain current and effective in addressing the complex needs of those they serve.

In contrast, accepting roles beyond one's current abilities would compromise the quality of service provided and could lead to harm. Overlooking emerging knowledge prevents practitioners from utilizing the best available practices and innovations that can benefit clients. Depending solely on previous experience can lead to stagnation, as practice methods and societal issues evolve over time, requiring a proactive approach to learning. Therefore, focusing on acquiring relevant knowledge aligns with the ethical obligation to enhance one's practice and better serve clients.