Ethical Scenario Analysis

In this ethical scenario paper, you will see the scenario that I’ve chosen to respond to that I selected from the “menu of choices”. Throughout the paper, there will be some comparison with the NASW code of ethics in correspond with my opinions and not limited to, referencing. In these next few paragraphs, I will recap my selected scenario, discuss my response regarding the scenario, enclose some ethical implications that can possibly emerge, as well as, some ethical responsibilities to clients, and ethical responsibilities to colleagues.

Scenario

I’m currently co-facilitating a group for men who are dealing with their sexuality. There are some members in the group that are admittedly gay, while there are others who typically struggle with

their identity. I strongly believe that no one is born gay, however, some members might think differently. I have decided to keep an open mind and consider others opinions. This does not necessarily mean that I have to agree or disagree, but I will choose to value the things that they say.
Response
As I open with this group as a co-facilitator, it is my responsibility to announce the privacy and confidentiality expectations of this group.

Making sure that each individual understands that all of the information presented is confidential unless someone mentions harming themselves or someone else. That is when I will have to share their information, being that I’m a mandated reported. With that being said, it is beneficial to these clients that I mention I respect their rights to privacy and I will not solicit private information that I receive from them. By addressing this, there is a chance my clients will participate in discussions, disclose some valuable information, and hopefully feel comfortable being a part of this group. Hence, the NASW Code of Ethics 1.07 “Privacy and Confidentiality” further explains disclosing confidential information, protecting confidentiality, rights and obligation and more. (NASW Code of Ethics, 11). Confidentiality is a very important aspect when communicating with clients. They want to know that they can trust someone without being judge. I think it is important to make the clients in this group feel comfortable and respect their opinions and not judge them. In the NASW Code of Ethics, it mentions that social workers should treat the clients with respect and avoid giving negative criticism. This information was mentioned in the NASW Code of Ethics under “Social Workers’ Ethical Responsibilities to Colleagues” 2.01 Respect. (NASW Code of Ethics,

pp.15).
One of the members of the group introduced a solution such as a reparative therapy, which seemed to ignite a debate amongst his fellow members. My first step was to discuss with the members there is no right or wrong answer. The debates are going to be beneficial in to listening to each others opinions. There are many solutions to helping those that are struggling with their sexual identity or feel as they have no one to talk to. In order to come up with a solution that will be suitable for each person, I would take the approach to find out each individual opinion of their sexual identity. Questions I would ask are the following: Why do you associate with this particular identity? Do you classify yourself as part of the LGBT community? Are you openly gay? What struggles do you face everyday being labeled as part of the LGBT community? What is something you would want to see changed within this particular community and what actions are you taking to make change happen? These questions opens a great conversation to get the members that are a part of the group thinking. Not only would it get the members thinking about themselves, it will help me and the rest of the members get to know them better.