Moral Injury in Social Work: Responses, Prevention, and Advocacy

Abstract

Throughout social work’s history, some practitioners and their employing organizations have caused harm. This article explores the concept of moral injury and its relevance to the social work profession. The author explores essential components of a meaningful response to moral injury in social work that simultaneously acknowledges the impact of moral injury on individual victims and addresses the need for structural reform. The author discusses the nature and causes of moral injury, prevention strategies (including the need for practitioner self-care and organizational and community advocacy), the role of apology, restorative justice, and moral courage.