ABSTRACT
Social work is a practice-based profession and discipline that promotes the empowerment and liberation of people. The 1979 Code provided guidelines for professional conduct and established the social worker’s ethical responsibilities to clients, colleagues, employers, the social work profession, and society. A new code of ethics was warranted as social workers had developed an enhanced understanding of ethical issues which were not addressed in the 1979 Code. Social workers are discouraged in discussing confidential information via technology or face to face unless the social worker has taken the necessary steps to ensure confidentiality. Social workers are required take reasonable steps to protect the privacy. The use of technology is also important as it pertains to client records as many social workers and agencies employ electronic records and documentation. The history and development of social work ethics have been influenced by the needs and demands of both clients and social work professionals.
