Journal of Sociology and Social Work

Harnessing Technology in the Social Work Discipline: Moving Forward Ethically
Dana C. Branson, PhD; LCSW Kathie A. Miller, MSW, LCSW

Abstract
This article discusses the importance of embracing technology to advance the discipline of social work. The development of service provision through digital platforms has created new considerations of the discipline’s values, ethical standards, and practice standards. Although technology presents new challenges and potential problems, the advantages and potential expansion of service delivery to vulnerable populations are substantial. The importance of proactive policy development concerning agency, provider, and client social media use will be discussed, as well as specific domains of client privacy, informed consent, client confidentiality, the client-social worker relationship, the social worker’s privacy, and boundary issues.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jssw.v8n2a2