NASW Code of Ethics
A code of conduct is a hallmark of a profession. It prescribes behavior of professionals in serving and protecting clientele, colleagues, and the society at large. The Code of Ethics for the social work profession has been developed through its major professional association, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Evolving from the first Code (1960) that was a one-page statement of 15 principles to the current Code of 27 pages, NASW has historically defined and refined its Code of Ethics in light of emergent practices and research findings, and through analysis of ethical dilemmas that reached the adjudication sanction processes. The Code is developed by a team of experts and ratified by both the Association’s Delegate Assembly and Board of Directors. Licensing bodies in most states require continuing education in ethics (3 CEU's in Illinois) to assure that those licensed not only adhere to defined practice standards, but to ethical conduct as well. Illinois specifically references the NASW Code of Ethics as the ethical standard that must be adhered to by licensees.
NASW Code of Ethics
The NASW Code of Ethics is a set of standards that guide the professional conduct of social workers. The 2021 update includes language that addresses the importance of professional self-care. Moreover, revisions to Cultural Competence standard provide more explicit guidance to social workers. All social workers should review the new text and affirm their commitment to abide by the Code of Ethics. Also available in Spanish.
The NASW Code of Ethics is a set of standards that guide the professional conduct of social workers. The 2021 update includes language that addresses the importance of professional self-care. Moreover, revisions to Cultural Competence standard provide more explicit guidance to social workers. All social workers should review the new text and affirm their commitment to abide by the Code of Ethics. Also available in Spanish.
Read the NASW Code of Ethics
Code of Ethics History
NASW’s Delegate Assembly approved the first edition of the NASW Code of Ethics on October 13, 1960. Since then, the Code has emerged as the standard bearer for defining the values and principles that guide social workers’ conduct in all practice areas.
Learn how the Code of Ethics has evolved over time
Ethics Education
Section 1470.95 of the Illinois Clinical Social Work and Social Work Practice Act states that "...at least 3 of the 30 hours must include content related to the ethical practice of social work."
Need Ethics CEUs?
The NASW-Illinois Chapter is always working on planning future programming including trainings
pertaining to ethics. Check out our Events page for our latest event offerings. Know a potential
presenter who's knowledgeable on ethics? Consider becoming a speaker with the NASW-Illinois
Chapter and submitting our Volunteer Speaker Application form here.
If your agency is interested in scheduling in-house trainings in the workplace, contact us.
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