Key terms are important vocabulary for understanding the content of the chapters. They will be bolded and defined via an in-text glossary the first time that they appear in the chapter.

Key terms for this chapter are:

• Code of ethics: one of the distinguishing features of a profession, it sets standards and values for workers to uphold.
• Dilemma: a situation in which one has to make a choice between two options that have competing values and are equally unfavorable.
• Ethics: moral principles.
• National Association of Social Workers (NASW): a professional organization for social workers and those studying social work.
• National Organization of Human Services (NOHS): a professional association for human services professionals and those studying human services.
• Professionalism: the conduct, qualities, and qualifications recognized as part of a profession.
• Social Problem: any condition or behavior that has negative consequences for large numbers of people and that is generally recognized as a condition or behavior that needs to be addressed. Multiple factors contribute to the complexity of social problems. Typically the solution to the problem needs to be systemic in nature; in other words, it cannot be solved by any one individual.
• Standards: Agreed upon level of quality in selected areas.