Discussing an Ethical Conflict in the SOP

[tamburger]

I am currently reworking my SOP, and in one section of the prompt, I need to discuss an ethical conflict and how I resolved it:
 

 

The social work profession entails a set of core values, as well as a code of ethics. Recognizing the dignity and worth of the person, understanding the importance of human relationships, service and integrity are a few of the social work profession core values, which help to inform the NASW Code of Ethics. Describe a situation in which you were confronted with a value or ethical conflict. How did you resolve it?

 

What is the department looking for in a good response? Are they looking strictly for steps I took to see if I am familiar with certain protocol? My ability to handle stressful situations? Coping strategies? I am kind of at a loss

 

Any help would be surely appreciated!

[TheCrow]

Basically, social work has values. What would you do if your personal values or beliefs conflicted with a professional obligation? Demonstrate this by referring to a conflict you were confronted with earlier and what you did to resolve it.

[BunnyMeadows]

Hi Tamburger,

I had a similar question. I answered a situation where my local Rotary Club was doing something that Rotary's bylaws SPECIFICALLY say is "unacceptable." I explained how the club's actions did not dignify the worth of human beings, was discriminatory and disrespectful. 

 

Like social work, Rotary has its own "code of ethics" and I described how I applied Rotary's code to address the situation, which ultimately resolved it.