Social Work Ethics Reflection Paper

Introduction As professionals, social workers must adhere to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics. The importance of cultural competency is highlighted in code 1.05 Cultural Competence and Social Diversity which states that social workers should have an understanding of cultural strengths in order to provide culturally sensitive and competent services (National Association of Social Workers [NASW], 2008). According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, individuals of racial minority populations such as African American individuals underuse mental health services in comparison to Caucasian individuals due to factors such as stigmas surrounding mental health, and access barriers (2001). Moreover, mental health and mental illness in minority individuals are often exacerbated and worsened due to experience factors such as racism and discrimination (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2001). Moreover, individuals of racial minority populations are more likely to delay seeking mental health services and treatment (McGuire & Miranda, 2008), leading to increase in likelihood of receiving involuntary mental health services (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2001). The California Welfare and …show more content…
As a social worker lacking such knowledge, I would not be able to demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity in the provision of treatment, or conduct an accurate biopsychosocial mental health assessment of my client. In order to educate myself about my client’s culture and heritage, I will assess my own cultural competence, immerse myself in various cultural communities, and read literature about different cultures and heritage. Doing so will increase my sensitivity and knowledge to cultural practices, traditions, and views on mental