Which of the following is a key ethical responsibility social workers have to their colleagues?

Social workers have a fundamental ethical responsibility to seek consultation when needed, as outlined in the NASW Code of Ethics. This practice ensures that social workers engage in competent and informed decision-making. Collaboration and seeking input from colleagues is essential for professionalism, particularly when faced with complex cases or ethical dilemmas. By consulting with peers, social workers maintain accountability and enhance the quality of services provided to clients, aligning with a core value of service in the profession.

In a setting where teamwork and inter-professional collaboration are vital, the act of seeking consultation fosters an environment of support and shared knowledge, which ultimately benefits clients and strengthens the ethical standards of practice within the field. This practice also reinforces the principle of integrity, as social workers strive for high standards in their work, recognizing when they may require assistance or a different perspective.

The other options do not represent ethical responsibilities. Prioritizing personal interests undermines the commitment to clients and colleagues, while engaging in non-professional discussions could breach confidentiality and professional boundaries. Avoiding conflicts with supervisors, while important, does not directly address the collaborative aspect of working with colleagues, which is essential for ethical practice.