ASWB LCSW Social Work Clinical Practice Exam

Public participation in social work ethics primarily aims to:

1. Encourage community involvement

2. Discourage volunteer efforts

3. Focus solely on policy creation

4. Isolate social services from community needs

The correct answer is: Encourage community involvement

Public participation in social work ethics primarily aims to encourage community involvement because it emphasizes the importance of engaging clients and communities in the decision-making processes that affect their lives. This approach fosters collaboration and empowers individuals to have a say in the social, economic, and political issues relevant to them. By incorporating the perspectives and experiences of those who are directly affected by social services, social workers can better tailor their interventions to meet the actual needs of the community. Encouraging community involvement also strengthens the sense of ownership among community members regarding the programs and policies that serve them. This engagement leads to more effective and responsive social work practices, as practitioners are better informed about the issues that matter most to those they serve. Overall, public participation supports the ethical principles of respect, dignity, and the promotion of social justice within the context of social work.