What should social workers avoid taking advantage of during disputes with colleagues?

The choice that highlights what social workers should avoid taking advantage of during disputes with colleagues is personal gain. This option focuses on the ethical principles of the NASW Code of Ethics that stress integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to the well-being of others, including colleagues.

When social workers prioritize personal gain in disputes, they may compromise the collaborative spirit that is essential for effective teamwork and client outcomes. This undermines the trust and respect necessary for a healthy workplace environment. Social workers are encouraged to foster professional relationships and support each other, rather than exploiting conflicts for selfish reasons. Upholding these values ensures that social workers remain accountable to both their profession and the individuals they serve.

While colleagues' weaknesses, employer disagreements, and client distress are important issues in collaborative environments, they are not as fundamentally tied to the ethical responsibilities and professional standards that govern social work practice as the notion of avoiding personal gain. Engaging in conduct that prioritizes self-interest goes against the core values of service, social justice, and human dignity that social workers strive to uphold.