Is Social Work Right for You?
Discover if social work aligns with your personality, values, and career goals. Explore the traits of successful social workers and weigh the rewards against the challenges.
Key Personality Traits for Social Work Success
Empathy
Understanding and sharing others' emotions
Resilience
Bouncing back from challenging situations
Communication
Clear, compassionate verbal and written skills
Advocacy
Standing up for clients and social justice
Critical Thinking
Analyzing complex problems and solutions
Cultural Awareness
Understanding diverse backgrounds and perspectives
The Honest Truth About Social Work
NASW Code of Ethics
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics guides all professional social work practice. The core values include:
Service
Helping people in need and addressing social problems
Social Justice
Challenging social injustice and promoting change
Dignity & Worth
Respecting the inherent dignity of all people
Human Relationships
Recognizing relationships as vehicles for change
Integrity
Acting honestly and responsibly
Competence
Practicing within areas of competence