Janet is a social worker in a foster care agency. She has been working with 8-year-old Carrian, her foster mother, Celene, and biological mother, Wendy, for three years. Carrian was removed from her mother’s care three years ago because Wendy was abusing heroine with her boyfriend and was neglecting Carrian. Since losing Carrian, Wendy has been to rehab and has been clean for a year and a half. She left her boyfriend and currently lives in her own apartment. She also has had a steady job working at The Shoppers Fair for a year and has even been promoted to Assistant Manager. Wendy has had limited supervised visits with Carrian and has agreed to an open adoption with Celene. This agreement will allow Wendy to have unsupervised visits with Carrian once a month. All parties are satisfied with this arrangement. Last week, during a visit to discuss the adoption with Janet, Wendy admitted to using heroine the previous weekend with her ex-boyfriend. He had moved out of the town, but showed up at Wendy’s apartment Friday night looking for a place to stay. Wendy reluctantly let him stay, and when he went to shoot up, Wendy couldn’t resist. Wendy spent the weekend drinking and using drugs with her ex, and she missed work on Monday because of the effects of the drugs. Wendy realized her mistake Monday afternoon and demanded that he leaves for good. She was upset with herself and told Janet how she felt. She said to Janet, “I’ve been clean for a year and a half, and now this happens right before the adoption goes through.” Wendy said she told Janet about the situation because they have developed a strong relationship and she wants to be honest with Janet. Wendy begs Janet not to tell the judge of this isolated setback and promises it won’t happen again. “I’ve lived the last two years of my life in hopes of being able to see my daughter on a regular basis and be a part of her life again. I’ve gone clean for her. If I lose this opportunity, I’ll have nothing left to live for.” Janet firmly believes that this has been Wendy’s only relapse and that Wendy will not let it happen again, out of devotion to Carrian. Janet believes that Wendy would never put her daughter at any risk or danger by being under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the monthly visits. Janet believes that the influence of Wendy’s ex triggered the relapse. However, Janet has fears that Wendy might return to her old ways of drug use if she loses the chance to be a part of Carrian’s life. Wendy’s rebuilt life might collapse around her. Janet is also aware that the NASW Code of Ethics (1999) guides her accurately. She is now conflicted because she knows what is before her with the decisions she needs to make. She knows what can happen if she documents what Wendy has told her; that his will only result in Wendy losing her rights to see Carrian. Janet thinks about the safety of her own job at the agency, which puts her family (husband and three children) in great financial difficulty if she gets fired. Janet wants to help Wendy move forward while also assuring the safety and interests of the child. She ponders her next move.

Task:

Use the Congress Ethics Decision Making Model to analyze the case study above then further explain these steps in the Congress Ethic Decision Making Model:

Steps:

1. Examine relevant personal, societal, agency and professional values.

2. Think about what ethical standard of the NASW Code applies to the situation, as well as the relevant laws and case decisions.

3. Hypothesize about the possible consequences of different decisions.

4. Identify who will benefit and who will be harmed in view of the most vulnerable clients.

5. Consult with supervisors and colleagues about the most ethical choice.

ANSWER

Ethical Decision-Making in Foster Care: Balancing Client Safety and the Well-Being of All Parties

Introduction

In this case study, social worker Janet finds herself faced with a complex ethical dilemma involving Wendy, Carrian’s biological mother, who has recently relapsed into drug use. As a social worker in a foster care agency, Janet is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of the child, Carrian, while also considering the rights and rehabilitation of Wendy. This essay will analyze the case study using the Congress Ethics Decision Making Model, highlighting the steps involved in navigating this challenging situation and making an ethical choice that prioritizes the best interests of all involved parties.

 Examine relevant personal, societal, agency, and professional values

Janet must reflect on her personal values, societal norms, and the values promoted by her agency and the social work profession. She should consider the importance of honesty, integrity, child safety, rehabilitation, and the principles outlined in the NASW Code of Ethics.

 Identify ethical standards and legal considerations

Janet should refer to the NASW Code of Ethics and identify relevant ethical standards that apply to this situation. She must also consider any relevant laws and regulations related to foster care, adoption, and parental rights. Key ethical standards include ensuring the safety of clients, respecting client self-determination, maintaining confidentiality, and promoting the well-being of vulnerable individuals.

 Hypothesize about the possible consequences

Janet needs to consider the potential outcomes of different decisions. She should evaluate the short-term and long-term consequences for Carrian, Wendy, and the foster family. This involves considering the emotional, physical, and psychological well-being of Carrian, as well as the potential impact on Wendy’s recovery and future involvement in Carrian’s life.

 Identify who will benefit and who will be harmed

Janet must determine the parties who will benefit or be harmed by her decision, focusing on the most vulnerable client, Carrian. She needs to weigh the potential risks to Carrian’s well-being if Wendy continues to have unsupervised visits while struggling with substance abuse.

 Consult with supervisors and colleagues

To ensure a comprehensive ethical decision-making process, Janet should seek guidance from her supervisors and consult with colleagues who have expertise in child welfare and ethics. Their perspectives can provide valuable insights and assist in exploring alternative solutions that prioritize Carrian’s safety and well-being.

Conclusion

Navigating ethical dilemmas in the field of social work requires careful consideration and adherence to professional standards. In the case of Janet, her decision-making process involves examining personal and professional values, identifying relevant ethical standards and legal considerations, predicting consequences, and assessing the potential impact on vulnerable clients. By seeking guidance from supervisors and colleagues, Janet can make an informed and ethical choice that balances the rehabilitation and well-being of Wendy with the safety and best interests of Carrian. Ultimately, Janet’s commitment to upholding the NASW Code of Ethics and prioritizing client welfare will guide her in making a decision that promotes the overall welfare of those involved in this complex and sensitive case.