Index Ethical Application for Decision Making Undermining Our Biases Ethical Theory Application of Ethical Decision Making Inviting the Client into Dialogue Accounting for Care Amidst Demands for Social Control Consider Ethical Activism and Resistance Appeal to the code of ethicsAppeal to standards of practiceConclusionReferencesWorking with a Gandhian philosophical approach, this writer works through the scenario of Enzo and his family to help resolve the ethical dilemmas presented. The writer uses the ethical decision-making model outlined in the textbook Spencer, Massing, and Gough (2017). Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayKeywords: Gandhian ethics, ethical dilemma, social control, activismEthical Application for Decision MakingFor the purpose of this article, the writer will use the example of Enzo, a 38 year old single father of two children, Jenna (age 17) and Memory (12 years old), sees a family counselor. To understand Enzo's case, the writer will start by focusing on the damages of the people involved: trying to understand what they are, how they affect all the people involved and to compare them with each other. Participants include, at least, Enzo and his daughters, Jenna, Memory and their grandmother. The agencies involved in this case include: the government income security program, the Housing Authority, Enzo's boss, my agency (if any), and indirectly the taxpayers. In considering possible answers to our ethical dilemma, we must be aware that some information may be missing to which we do not have access. The decisions we make are based solely on the information provided and may be different if additional information comes to light. When considering possible responses to this dilemma, we cannot help but make some assumptions about Enzo. For example, he may be so concerned with his own interests that he thinks it is better to defraud the government. Or that he may be able to work full time and is using his disability so he doesn't have to go back to work. However, as we face this dilemma or any other dilemma, we should assume that the individual making the decision is doing so based on what is best. Our presumption may be wrong, but assuming that most people are reasonable and well-intentioned is consistent with respecting people's inherent dignity and worth (Canadian Association of Social Workers, 2005). Assuming that Enzo is making reasonable and well-intentioned decisions, we are able to look at the situation from his point of view which will explain his decision making. When we look at Enzo's decision making we must also consider what most, not just Enzo, would do in a similar situation. Diminishing Our Prejudices When we make an ethical decision, we need to remove ourselves from the situation. We don't have to act on the emotions we feel in a particular situation to act objectively. This is difficult to do when we are engaged in relationships with people, when we understand their situation, and when we ourselves have been in similar situations. Understanding our personal interests is part of the journey that leads us to make our ethical decisions. Acting carefully and in a way that does not harm our self-interest is another consideration in ethical decision making. Acting in our own self-interest should not be a determining factor in decision making, however the consequences of a situation can impact us in the long term and should be examined and discussed. We have tomake ethical judgments objectively; therefore, understanding the parts of ourselves (our values ​​and morals) that might create biases is a key part. We must ask ourselves whether others in a similar situation would make the same judgment. When making a decision regarding Enzo's case, the writer must be open and honest with past events in my personal life that I have made decisions similar to Enzo's. I have previously received government assistance and lived with a housing authority; either way, at times, I haven't been completely honest about my financial situation. I personally have made decisions that may not have been ethical in nature, however my family's basic needs (shelter, food, clothing) had to be met and surviving on a very limited income proved difficult at times. Having this understanding, combined with the insider knowledge I have gained since finding myself in that situation, allows me to provide options for Enzo and his family. Ethical Theory As Vareed states (Spencer, Massing, & Gough, 2017, p. 191) “Gandhian ethics follows a self-aware “reflexive process;” which is of utmost importance for writers in practice and training. Self-reflection is also fundamental to social work practice. Using a Gandhian philosophical approach to ethical decision making, this writer uses the concepts discussed by Walz and Ritchie, 2000 and Vareed (Spencer et. al., 2017): unity of all things, Ahiṃsā, Sarvodaya, Satyagraha and Swadeshi. the approach presupposes self-reflection to change oneself; then change the world. When faced with an ethical dilemma, we must not make reckless decisions; we need to reflect with ourselves, process the thoughts that caused our dilemma, evaluate the decisions we need to make, have healthy conversations with the client/parties involved, and seek guidance from others. So ultimately, aligning with Gandhian thoughts, follow our inner truths. Unity of all things. We as a society have adopted and normalized thoughts of equality and gone against utilitarian thoughts. Examples of this are universal legislations such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.Ahiṃsā. To cause no harm and do no harm. These acts are not only applicable to the physical realm of life, but also to the mental, emotional, and spiritual realms. Sarvodaya. Create a base of support for all, especially those who are most in need, in order to uplift society as a whole. Satyagraha. Understand that we cannot solve social problems with punishment. We can only correct these problems with love and mutual support. Swadeshi. That we need to support self-sufficiency at a higher level. The word in and of itself means “one's country,” but speaks to alignment with social justice and advocacy. Applying Ethical Decision Making To apply a working model of ethical decision making, the writer must consider the following: What are my ethical obligations under the Code of Ethics and/or Standards of Practice? What are my ethical obligations under the law? What are my ethical obligations to my client as an individual? What are my ethical obligations to my organization? Working through the model Define the situation and questions The decisions that need to be made for this scenario involve ethical, legal and best practice questions This scenario presents ethical dilemmas as defined by Banks and Williams (2005) Legal obligations and responsibilities include fraud against a government agency. Questions about good practice arise, in this writer's opinion, along with all the ethical problems. The good onepractice is followed by self-reflection, understanding personal ethical philosophical views, and working through the ethical dilemma in this way. In this scenario, the stakeholders involved include: Enzo, Jenna (daughter), Memory (daughter), the grandmother, the Government agencies that manage income security and subsidized housing, Enzo's boss, the writer and the organization the writer may or may not work for. Dilemmas include: Enzo working for a cash income and not reporting it to the Income Security Program and Enzo's daughter, Jenna, residing with her grandmother during the week so as to be closer to school. The writer must make a decision regarding whether to report Enzo's actions to the appropriate agencies, or not report. The writer has an ethical, legal, and moral obligation to each party involved in the dilemma. Reporting Decision Benefits Damages - Income Support Integrity Program - Client may lose income support - Housing Benefit Integrity Program - Client may face legal consequences: charged with a criminal offense - Following legal liabilities - Client may owe government debt - Client may lose daughters if criminal charges result in incarceration - Daughter may not have adequate means to go to school - Daughter may not attend school - Client may lose l accommodation - Client's mental health may deteriorate even more Do not report - Client has decreased financial stress - Client may have legal problems consequences even if not reported and found through audit - Client has support in raising daughters - Counselor may have consequences related to job loss, ethical investigations - Client receives physical relief with extra funding - Client has self-determination - Continuing relationship of trust - Upholding people's inherent dignity and worth - Upholding service to humanity - Alignment of personal values ​​related to individual freedom and obligation of service to those who are disadvantaged - Maintain confidentiality Invite the client to dialogue The writer would like to have an open and honest conversation with Enzo. Not only regarding the obligations the writer has regarding this dilemma, but also to evaluate other ways to satisfy his needs without these actions. Having a conversation with Enzo about issues not only continues and supports a trusting relationship, but also allows Enzo to make informed decisions in line with the Standards of Practice (2019). It is the writer's opinion that Enzo disclosed this information for reasons, even if he does not understand the reasons at the moment. On an unconscious level he may feel some form of guilt or shame in relation to this act, which he knows is wrong and has consequences. You may also feel guilt or shame regarding your ability to provide for your children. Having these conversations with Enzo will allow you to come up with an action plan that Enzo is fully involved in and has helped implement. Care Accounting Amidst Welfare Claims Control In this situation, the writer's best ethical self is reflected through my personal understanding and empathy towards how difficult it is to be a single parent and, at times, rely on systems of social support to make ends meet. And sometimes, not having enough support to make ends meet and do things that fall outside the consideration of “normal” or “law-abiding.” These experiences, in my opinion, also create a prejudice within me. By this I mean that I am of the opinion that these structural systems are not sufficient and that theMost people who rely on these systems are likely withholding information. However, privileged individuals or those who structure these support systems may not understand the life of someone who cannot meet their basic needs. Using the foundational knowledge I have of being disadvantaged with the experiential knowledge I have of privilege also allows me to support Enzo and provide him with resources he may not be aware of. Considering Activism and Ethical ResistanceAlthough the scenario provided does not indicate that this writer works for a specific agency, I assume this is the case. While working through this dilemma, the writer hopes to be involved with an agency that has similar beliefs and values. Working within organizations without similar beliefs, values ​​and practices adds further complexity to the decision-making process. While the writer recognizes that working within an agency that is exactly aligned with their personal beliefs and values ​​is unrealistic, it is important for the writer to align themselves with an agency that is. Appealing to the Code of Ethics Every value within the Code of Ethics (2005) is applicable to Enzo's case. As I work professionally with Enzo and his family, I support and respect his inherent dignity and worth. I believe he is a capable individual who has the right to self-determination and that he is the only person who knows what is best for him and his family. I do not believe his actions were malicious or intended to intentionally defraud. I also provide him with informed choice regarding the decisions I need to make as a service provider and I want him to be involved in that process. I also have a professional and moral obligation to provide him with access to information or resources that may be outside his knowledge. The pursuit of social justice can be achieved at both the individual and macro levels. I believe I have an obligation to help him get resources, but also to advocate for better resources and supports. Examples of this may include helping Enzo get disability assistance as he appears to only receive income assistance, which is a lower level of pay. Other examples include a survivor's pension if you are not already receiving it; as well as possible ride-sharing or community bus programs for your daughter. The work and conversations I have with Enzo translate into my service to humanity and integrity in my professional practice. All these components are in line with Gandhian theory in which Walz and Ritchie (2000) state that one must remain in close, personal, non-exploitative and non-manipulative relationships with others. Appealing to the Standards of Practice Working through an ethical dilemma within and without itself is aligning my professional capacity with the Standards of Practice (2019). I am ensuring that I am competent in my position by analyzing my personal beliefs and values, recognizing my biases for this scenario, and maintaining a professional relationship with this client. I also maintain professional responsibility in discussing this issue with Enzo and allowing him to understand the dilemma. Conclusion The purpose of income support, specific to Alberta, is to "provide programs for persons in need of such food, shelter, personal property, medical and other benefits as are essential to their health and well-being and , in particular, provide training and other measures to facilitate their movement towards independence and self-sufficiency” (Income and Employment Supports Act, SA 2003). With the poverty threshold in Canada for a home with two parents and two children amounting to $37,542.00 according to Statistics Canada in 2015, income support in./45.3.213