Two criteria that define competence in social work are critical thinking and ethical practice.
Critical thinking is of utmost importance in social work because through this, social workers know the principles of logic, reasoned discernment, and scientific inquiry. Through creativity and curiosity, critical thinking is effectively put into practice. For critical thinking to be effective in the line of duty, synthesis, and communication of relevant information is of utmost importance.
An excellent example of critical thinking is that social workers discern, evaluate, and put to practice several sources of wisdom, practice, and knowledge. Through critical thinking, a competent social worker has the capability of thinking outside the box while ensuring the ethics boundary is not surpassed to offer a client a favorable solution.
In the line of duty, social workers engage in effective oral and written communication with clients, colleagues, communities, and organizations. A competent social worker through critical thinking has the capability of adapting the needs of others. Through critical thinking, social workers can analyze and find common ground that ensures the audience can well gain words.
The second criterion is an ethical practice. According to /////, social workers must ethically conduct themselves while engaging in an effective and ethical decision-making process. Social workers should be aware of the NASW Code of ethics, which are relevant and ethical laws and standards. Through ethical practice, social workers practice their duty through recognizing and managing personal values. Social workers who incorporate the NASW code of ethics, their education, and training and research them bring about effective, ethical decisions. Through moral reasoning, social workers can develop essential choices. Competent social workers uphold integrity and ethics, whether anyone is watching or not.