Discrimination has no place in social work. That’s not just a value—it’s a clear ethical obligation. Whether we’re working with clients, colleagues, or institutions, social workers are expected to actively oppose bias in all its forms.
The NASW Code of Ethics makes this plain in 4.02 Discrimination:
Social workers should not practice, condone, facilitate, or collaborate with any form of discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, political belief, religion, immigration status, or mental or physical ability.
This standard is one of the most straightforward—and most vital—in the Code. Social workers are called to be anti-discriminatory in every aspect of their work. That means:
Not engaging in discriminatory acts ourselves
Not standing by when others do
Not excusing harmful systems or policies
Not participating in actions, language, or decisions that exclude, stereotype, or harm
It also means keeping up with how bias can show up—explicitly or subtly—and checking our own blind spots.
Silence can equal complicity
On the exam, a question may show a social worker overhearing discriminatory comments from a colleague. The right answer will likely involve not staying silent—even if the comments weren’t directed at a client.
Discrimination includes policy, not just personal behavior
A question may focus on a school social worker who notices that disciplinary policies disproportionately affect students of color. The ethical response? Advocate for change, not just observe.
All listed identities matter—none are optional
Expect a question testing whether political belief or immigration status are protected in this context. They are. Don't overlook them.
You can’t defer responsibility
If an employer tells you to act in a way that’s discriminatory, the exam will reward answers that show ethical independence—refusing to comply while seeking solutions.
One way this could show up on the licensing exam:
A hospital social worker is reviewing a referral from the ER. A nurse tells the social worker, “You probably don’t need to spend too much time with this one—they’re undocumented.” What is the most ethical response by the social worker?
A. Say nothing and proceed with the intake as usual.
B. Report the nurse’s comment to a supervisor without further discussion.
C. Acknowledge the concern but explain that all patients receive the same care.
D. Clarify that immigration status does not affect service provision and address the comment directly.
Breaking it down:
A ignores the discriminatory remark, which the Code discourages.
B skips the opportunity to address the issue directly and may escalate prematurely.
C makes a start, but softens the response and misses the chance to challenge bias directly.
D is strongest—it's clear, respectful, and aligns with 4.02’s call to reject and confront discrimination.
Correct answer: D.
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