NCJ Number
210178
Date Published
April 2009
Length
156 pages
Annotation
This handbook of ethical practice in the delivery of crime victim services is a skill-building resource designed to help victim-assistance providers analyze common ethical dilemmas in their work.
Abstract
The concepts discussed in this book are based on the model of ethical standards developed by the National Victim Assistance Standards Consortium (NVASC). Four chapters constitute part 1, "Recognizing and Resolving Ethical Conflict." Chapter 1 first reviews the history of ethics and professional ethics, followed by an overview of the professional values underlying the NVASC ethical code; each NVASC ethical standard is discussed in detail. Chapter 2 offers resources for analyzing personal values and understanding moral and cultural orientations that influence relationships with crime victims; and chapter 3 focuses on ethical issues pertinent to boundaries, confidentiality and its exceptions, and legal responsibilities. Chapter 4 discusses ineffective problem-solving techniques that lead to ethical dilemmas, problem-solving techniques for avoiding ethical dilemmas, and ethical communication. Part 2 is entitled "Toolbox," as it guides the reader through the ethical decisionmaking process that applies to the daily dilemmas that occur in delivering services to crime victims. Nineteen case scenarios provide insight into the intention and application of the NVASC ethical standards. Appended general resources for understanding and reflecting on professional ethics and a subject index