Ethical and legal dilemmas experienced by Israeli social workers during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Summary The Covid-19 pandemic (Coronavirus) has created complex challenges for recipients of social services worldwide and for the social workers entrusted with assisting them. This article presents a study of the decision-making process of Israeli social workers when coping with ethical and legal dilemmas arising during the pandemic. Method A qualitative self-administered survey was completed by 478 social workers who worked during the Covid-19 pandemic. Thematic analysis was used to identify major themes. Findings We identified three major themes. The first theme was concern over the potential violation of the service users' privacy and confidentiality due to the unique circumstances of the pandemic. The second theme was the danger to the social workers' health when serving clients during the pandemic. The third theme focused on difficulties in providing professional services during the pandemic. Applications We present several recommendations to help social workers cope with ethical and legal decisions in national emergencies.