Exploring Ethics and Client Work in Public Relations Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of ethics and service learning client work in public relations education. Interviews were conducted with students at three universities who had completed public relations client work. Findings suggest that ethics in client work involves honesty, respect, following personal convictions, bracketing personal values, and balancing ethical values. Students perceived that client work prepared them to be accountable, perform quality work, rely on mentoring, and learn that being ethical takes practice. Ultimately, client work appears to help students explore ethical beliefs and competencies in a realistic environment with assistance.