ABSTRACT
While the general social work literature devotes many discussions to the importance of dealing with value dilemmas in regard to work with individuals, relatively little of that literature focuses on value dilemmas as they relate to group practice. Respect for the dignity, autonomy, and confidentiality of individual clients is complicated when groups form, revealing a heterogeneity of opinions, cultures, and prejudices. The violation of ethical principles held dear by the profession, a lack of respect for democratic process, a discriminatory or racist policy by group members, or a breach of confidentiality is often not within the control of workers, and these transgressions by group members often pose important value dilemmas for workers. The first step in achieving confidentiality is to develop an initial contract that emphasizes the framework in which the group will proceed. This chapter presents some scenarios drawn from actual practice experience with groups in the field.
