Routledge Paradoxes in Social Work Practice - Ethical Decision Making

Paradoxes in Social Work Practice challenges conventional approaches to ethics in the helping professions by moving beyond traditional codes and decision-making models. This Contemporary Social Work Studies volume from Routledge explores how social workers construct ethical meanings within their practice, particularly when navigating competing professional principles and contextual pressures. The book takes a critical theoretical approach that acknowledges the limitations of universal ethical codes, which often assume shared meanings whilst failing to account for the complexity of real-world practice contexts. Rather than offering prescriptive solutions, it examines the paradoxes social workers face when positioned at the intersection of multiple ethical demands. Ideal for social work educators, practitioners, and students seeking deeper understanding of ethical practice beyond conventional frameworks, this resource provides essential insights into managing ethical tensions and developing context-sensitive approaches to professional decision-making.