How to Cite NASW Code of Ethics: APA, MLA

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics, a foundational document for social work practice, requires careful attention when incorporated into scholarly work. Academic integrity necessitates that students and professionals understand how to cite NASW Code of Ethics appropriately, utilizing established citation styles such as those defined by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Modern Language Association (MLA). These citation formats provide guidelines to ensure proper attribution and avoid plagiarism, particularly when referencing specific ethical standards within the Code. Guidance from university writing centers and style manuals assists researchers in accurately presenting sources, thus reinforcing the ethical considerations inherent in social work scholarship.

Upholding Ethical Standards Through Proper Citation in Social Work

Ethical citation stands as a cornerstone of responsible conduct in social work, both in academic research and professional practice. This introductory section lays the foundation for understanding the vital role of integrity and accurate source acknowledgment in the field.

It is essential for maintaining the trustworthiness and credibility of social work scholarship and practice. This guide aims to provide a clear and comprehensive understanding of how to cite sources ethically and effectively.

The Significance of Ethical Citation in Social Work

In both academic and professional spheres, ethical citation serves as a fundamental principle for responsible conduct.

In academia, it demonstrates intellectual honesty by giving credit to the original authors and researchers whose ideas and findings contribute to scholarly work. This practice fosters a culture of respect for intellectual property and promotes the advancement of knowledge through transparent and accountable scholarship.

Professionally, ethical citation ensures that social workers rely on accurate and reliable information when making critical decisions that impact the lives of individuals, families, and communities. By properly citing sources, practitioners can demonstrate their commitment to evidence-based practice and uphold the highest standards of professional integrity.

Overview of the NASW Code of Ethics and Its Relevance to Citation Practices

The NASW Code of Ethics provides a comprehensive framework for ethical decision-making in social work. Several principles within the Code directly relate to citation practices.

Specifically, social workers have a responsibility to:

• Ensure that their work is based on current and reliable knowledge. This necessitates the careful and accurate citation of sources to support their claims and recommendations.

• Maintain honesty and integrity in all professional activities. This includes avoiding plagiarism and accurately representing the work of others.

• Respect the intellectual property of others. This requires obtaining permission to use copyrighted material and properly attributing sources in all written and oral communications.

Adhering to these ethical mandates is crucial for maintaining the public's trust in the social work profession and ensuring that social workers practice in a responsible and ethical manner.

Purpose and Scope of This Guide

This guide offers a detailed, step-by-step explanation of how to cite sources ethically and effectively in social work. It emphasizes adherence to the NASW Code of Ethics and provides practical guidance on using various citation styles commonly employed in the field.

The guide's purpose is to equip social work students, educators, and practitioners with the knowledge and skills necessary to:

• Understand the principles of ethical citation and their relevance to social work.
• Master the mechanics of different citation styles, including APA and MLA.
• Accurately cite the NASW Code of Ethics and related materials.
• Navigate common citation challenges and avoid plagiarism.

By following the guidelines presented in this guide, social workers can ensure that their work is characterized by integrity, accuracy, and respect for the intellectual contributions of others.

Foundational Principles: Defining Ethical Citation and Its Relationship to the NASW Code

This section establishes the bedrock principles of ethical citation, clarifying its meaning and illustrating its deep connection to the ethical responsibilities outlined in the NASW Code of Ethics. It is crucial to establish a firm understanding of these principles to ensure integrity and responsible scholarship within the field of social work. This section will also introduce essential citation concepts.

Defining Ethical Citation

Ethical citation transcends the mere act of giving credit; it embodies a commitment to intellectual honesty and the responsible use of information. It means representing sources accurately, acknowledging intellectual contributions, and diligently avoiding plagiarism.

Accurate representation of sources ensures that the information presented reflects the original author's intent and meaning, preventing misinterpretations. This involves careful reading and comprehension of source materials to convey their ideas faithfully.

Acknowledging the intellectual contributions of others is a fundamental aspect of ethical citation. It demonstrates respect for the work of other scholars and researchers, recognizing their efforts and insights. By giving credit where it is due, we participate in a community of knowledge that values intellectual property.

Avoiding plagiarism in all its forms is paramount. Plagiarism, whether intentional or unintentional, undermines the integrity of academic and professional work.

It occurs when someone uses another person's ideas, words, or creative work without proper attribution. Ethical citation practices are the primary safeguard against plagiarism.

The Nexus of Ethical Citation and the NASW Code of Ethics

The NASW Code of Ethics provides a robust framework for ethical conduct in social work, and several of its principles are intrinsically linked to citation practices.

These principles emphasize the responsibility of social workers to provide the best possible service, maintain professional integrity, and uphold the highest standards of scholarly and professional conduct.

Ethical Responsibility to Clients

The NASW Code of Ethics mandates that social workers base their practice on current and reliable knowledge. Accurate and ethical citation is thus inextricably linked to our ethical responsibility to clients.

By citing sources appropriately, social workers demonstrate that their interventions and decisions are informed by evidence-based practice. This ensures clients receive the most effective and ethical services possible. Failure to properly cite sources, or using unreliable information, can lead to detrimental outcomes for clients.

Ethical Responsibility to the Profession

Ethical citation is not only a matter of individual integrity but also a responsibility to the social work profession as a whole. When social workers engage in responsible citation practices, they contribute to the trustworthiness and credibility of the field.

Maintaining honesty and integrity in scholarly and professional activities is a core tenet of the NASW Code of Ethics. Plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty erode public trust in social work.

Ethical citation, therefore, serves as a mechanism for upholding the profession's values and maintaining its reputation. By adhering to the highest standards of citation, social workers demonstrate their commitment to ethical practice and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

Essential Citation Concepts

Understanding the foundational concepts of citation is essential for effective and ethical source attribution. These concepts provide the framework for navigating different citation styles and ensuring accuracy in academic and professional writing.

Citation Styles

Various citation styles exist, each with its unique formatting guidelines. Social work commonly employs APA (American Psychological Association) and MLA (Modern Language Association) styles.

Briefly, APA style, known for its author-date format, is widely used in the social sciences. MLA style, utilizing author and page number in-text citations, is more common in the humanities. Familiarity with these styles enables social workers to cite sources accurately and consistently.

In-Text Citation

In-text citations are brief references within the body of a paper that acknowledge the sources of information. Their purpose is to provide immediate attribution and direct the reader to the full citation in the reference list or works cited.

Depending on the citation style, in-text citations typically include the author's last name and the year of publication (APA) or the author's last name and page number (MLA). Understanding the mechanics of in-text citation is vital for seamless integration of sources into one's writing.

Reference List (APA) / Works Cited (MLA)

The reference list (APA) or works cited (MLA) is a comprehensive list of all sources cited in a document. It appears at the end of the paper and provides full bibliographic information for each source, allowing readers to locate and verify the information used.

Accurately compiling the reference list or works cited is crucial for transparency and accountability. Each citation style has specific formatting requirements for different source types, such as journal articles, books, and websites.

Paraphrasing vs. Direct Quotation

Paraphrasing and direct quotation are two methods for incorporating information from sources into one's writing. Paraphrasing involves restating someone else's ideas in your own words, while direct quotation uses the exact words from the original source.

Both methods require proper attribution. When paraphrasing, it is essential to rephrase the information in a way that is distinctly your own, while still giving credit to the original author. Direct quotations should be used sparingly and enclosed in quotation marks, with precise source information provided.

Citation Style Deep Dive: Mastering APA and MLA

This section offers practical guidance on using two of the most common citation styles: APA and MLA. It covers basic formatting guidelines and specific examples to help readers apply these styles correctly. Mastery of these styles is crucial for clear communication and upholding ethical standards in social work scholarship and practice.

APA (American Psychological Association) Style

APA style is the dominant citation style in the social sciences, including social work. Its emphasis on clarity, conciseness, and consistency makes it well-suited for empirical research and professional writing in the field. Understanding and adhering to APA guidelines enhances the credibility and readability of scholarly work.

Overview and Applicability in Social Work Research and Writing

APA style's primary application lies in research reports, academic papers, and professional publications within social work. Its structure supports the presentation of empirical findings, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications. Its widespread use makes it essential for social work professionals to become proficient in APA formatting.

Basic Formatting Guidelines

Adhering to APA's formatting conventions is essential for maintaining consistency and professionalism. This includes paying close attention to in-text citations and the reference list.

In-Text Citations

APA style employs an author-date format for in-text citations. This means that the author's last name and the year of publication are included within the text, either parenthetically or narratively. For example: (Smith, 2023) or Smith (2023) stated that...

Variations of this format exist for direct quotations, multiple authors, and sources with no author. When quoting directly, page numbers must be included (Smith, 2023, p. 45).

For multiple authors, different rules apply based on the number of authors. Understanding these variations is crucial for accurate in-text citation.

Reference List

The reference list is a comprehensive compilation of all sources cited in a paper. It appears at the end of the document and provides full bibliographic information for each source. Accuracy and completeness in the reference list are essential for allowing readers to locate and verify the information used.

The structure varies based on the type of source.

Common source types include journal articles, books, and websites. Each source type has specific formatting requirements regarding author names, publication dates, titles, and publication information.

For example, a journal article citation includes the author(s), year of publication, article title, journal title, volume number, issue number, page range, and DOI (Digital Object Identifier) if available.

Specific Examples

Illustrative examples are invaluable for understanding how to apply APA style in practice. The following examples demonstrate how to cite the NASW Code of Ethics, journal articles, books, and online resources using APA.

Citing the NASW Code of Ethics Using APA Style

Citing the NASW Code of Ethics requires specific attention to detail. The NASW should be treated as the author, and the publication year should be the year of the edition being cited.

For example, in-text: (NASW, 2021); Reference list: National Association of Social Workers. (2021). NASW Code of Ethics.

Citing Journal Articles, Books, and Online Resources, with Example Citations

• Journal Article: Author, A. A., Author, B. B., & Author, C. C. (Year). Title of article. Title of Journal, Volume(Issue), page range. DOI
• Book: Author, A. A. (Year). Title of book. Publisher.
• Website: Author, A. A. (Year, Month Day). Title of page. Site Name. URL

These examples provide a foundation for citing a variety of sources commonly used in social work research and writing.

Referencing the APA Style Manual as the Authoritative Source

The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association is the definitive guide to APA style. Social workers should consult the latest edition of the manual for comprehensive guidance on all aspects of APA formatting. It offers detailed explanations, examples, and troubleshooting tips for a wide range of citation scenarios.

MLA (Modern Language Association) Style

MLA style, while more commonly used in the humanities, may be applicable in certain social work contexts, particularly when focusing on qualitative research, literature reviews, or interdisciplinary work. Understanding MLA style broadens a social worker's citation toolkit and enhances their ability to engage with diverse scholarly traditions.

Overview and Applicability in Social Work Contexts

MLA style may be appropriate for social work research that draws heavily on literary analysis, narrative inquiry, or historical perspectives. Its emphasis on authorship and textual interpretation can be valuable in these contexts. Knowing when and how to use MLA style can enhance the richness and depth of social work scholarship.

Basic Formatting Guidelines

MLA formatting differs significantly from APA in its approach to in-text citations and the works cited list.

In-Text Citations

MLA style employs an author and page number format for in-text citations. This means that the author's last name and the relevant page number(s) are included within the text, typically parenthetically. For example: (Smith 45) or as Smith notes (45)...

When the author's name is mentioned in the sentence, only the page number is required in the parenthetical citation. This approach emphasizes the author's voice and contribution.

Works Cited

The works cited list is a comprehensive list of all sources cited in a document. It appears at the end of the paper and provides full bibliographic information for each source. The structure varies based on the type of source, requiring careful attention to detail and adherence to MLA guidelines.

Common source types include journal articles, books, and websites. Each source type has specific formatting requirements regarding author names, titles, and publication information.

For example, a book citation in MLA style includes the author's name, book title, publisher, and publication year.

Specific Examples

Concrete examples are essential for mastering MLA style. The following examples illustrate how to cite the NASW Code of Ethics, journal articles, books, and online resources using MLA.

Citing the NASW Code of Ethics Using MLA Style

Citing the NASW Code of Ethics in MLA style requires attention to the specific format for organizations as authors. The Modern Language Association advises attributing the work to the corporate author (NASW)

For example, in-text: (National Association of Social Workers 23); Works Cited: National Association of Social Workers. NASW Code of Ethics. Washington, DC, NASW Press, 2021.

Citing Journal Articles, Books, and Online Resources, with Example Citations

• Journal Article: Author, A. A., et al. "Title of Article." Title of Journal, vol. Volume, no. Number, Date, pp. Page range.
• Book: Author, A. A. Title of Book. Publisher, Date.
• Website: Author, A. A. "Title of Page." Name of Website, Date of Publication, URL.

These examples provide a foundation for citing various sources commonly used in social work research and writing, ensuring proper attribution and adherence to MLA guidelines.

Referencing the MLA Handbook as the Authoritative Source

The MLA Handbook is the definitive guide to MLA style. Social workers should consult the latest edition of the handbook for comprehensive guidance on all aspects of MLA formatting. The handbook provides detailed explanations, examples, and best practices for a wide range of citation scenarios.

Specific Cases: Accurately Citing the NASW Code of Ethics and Related Materials

The NASW Code of Ethics serves as the bedrock of ethical conduct for social workers, guiding their practice and professional interactions.

As such, it is imperative that social workers are equipped to accurately cite this essential document and related materials in their scholarly and professional work.

This section focuses specifically on providing clear guidance on how to cite the NASW Code of Ethics, commentaries, and analyses, ensuring proper attribution and upholding ethical standards.

The Importance of Citing the NASW Code of Ethics

Citing the NASW Code of Ethics is not merely a matter of academic formality; it is a demonstration of professional integrity and ethical awareness.

When social workers reference the Code, they acknowledge the foundational ethical principles that inform their practice.

Moreover, it adds credibility to their arguments, demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based and ethically sound reasoning.

Accurate citation allows readers to locate and verify the source of ethical guidelines, promoting transparency and accountability within the profession.

In-Text Citation Guidelines

Referring to the Entire Code in a General Statement

When referring to the NASW Code of Ethics as a whole, a general in-text citation is appropriate.

This is used when the entire document provides the ethical framework for a discussion, rather than specific ethical standards.

In APA style, this would typically be formatted as (NASW, year).

In MLA style, it would be (National Association of Social Workers page number) or (NASW page number).

Citing Specific Ethical Standards Within the Code

When referencing specific ethical standards within the Code, it's crucial to provide more precise citations.

This allows readers to pinpoint the exact standard being referenced.

Include the organization's name (NASW) the year of publication and, if available, the specific section or standard number.

For example, in APA style: (NASW, 2021, Standard 1.01).

In MLA style: (National Association of Social Workers 2021, Standard 1.01).

Reference List/Works Cited Entry Formats

The reference list (APA) or works cited list (MLA) entry provides full bibliographic information for the NASW Code of Ethics.

This enables readers to locate the document and verify its contents.

The format varies slightly depending on the citation style.

Format for the NASW Code of Ethics Document Itself

The fundamental format for the Code itself should include the author (National Association of Social Workers), the year of publication, the title of the document, and the publisher.

APA Example:

National Association of Social Workers. (Year). NASW Code of Ethics. NASW Press.

MLA Example:

National Association of Social Workers. NASW Code of Ethics. NASW Press, Year.

Format for Commentaries, Analyses, or Discussions of the Code

When citing commentaries, analyses, or discussions about the NASW Code of Ethics, the format should reflect the specific source being cited.

This could include journal articles, books, or website content.

Adapt the citation format to the source type, ensuring that all relevant bibliographic information is included.

For instance, if citing a journal article analyzing the Code, follow the standard journal article citation format for APA or MLA.

Examples

The following examples demonstrate how to cite the NASW Code of Ethics in both APA and MLA styles:

APA Style Citation Example for the NASW Code of Ethics

In-Text Citation (General Reference): (NASW, 2021)

In-Text Citation (Specific Standard): (NASW, 2021, Standard 1.05)

Reference List Entry: National Association of Social Workers. (2021). NASW Code of Ethics. NASW Press.

MLA Style Citation Example for the NASW Code of Ethics

In-Text Citation (General Reference): (National Association of Social Workers 23) [Assuming a page number from the document]

In-Text Citation (Specific Standard): (National Association of Social Workers, Standard 1.05)

Works Cited Entry: National Association of Social Workers. NASW Code of Ethics. NASW Press, 2021.

By following these guidelines and examples, social workers can ensure that they are accurately and ethically citing the NASW Code of Ethics and related materials. This promotes transparency, accountability, and integrity in their work.

Your Toolkit: Practical Resources for Accurate Citation

Maintaining accurate and ethical citation practices is a cornerstone of responsible scholarship and professional conduct in social work.

Navigating the complexities of citation styles and source attribution can be daunting.

However, a wealth of resources are available to support social workers in this endeavor.

This section presents a curated list of practical tools and resources designed to aid in achieving accurate and ethical citation.

Leveraging University Library Resources

University libraries are invaluable hubs of information and expertise for students and professionals alike.

Social workers can greatly benefit from leveraging the comprehensive resources that libraries offer.

Library Guides and Databases

Most university libraries provide specialized citation guides tailored to various disciplines and citation styles, including APA and MLA.

These guides offer clear explanations, examples, and formatting templates to assist with accurate citation.

Furthermore, libraries subscribe to numerous databases that streamline the research process and often include citation tools that automatically generate citations in various formats.

Expert Assistance from Librarians

Librarians are information experts who possess extensive knowledge of research methodologies and citation practices.

Do not hesitate to seek their assistance when encountering citation challenges or needing guidance on specific source types.

Librarians can provide personalized support, answer questions, and offer strategies for navigating complex citation scenarios.

Navigating Citation Generators: Use with Caution

Citation generators are online tools designed to automatically generate citations based on user-provided information.

These tools can be useful for quickly creating initial citations; however, they are not infallible.

It is crucial to understand the limitations of citation generators and to exercise caution when using them.

Verifying Accuracy is Paramount

Citation generators may produce inaccurate or incomplete citations if the input information is incorrect or if the tool's algorithms are flawed.

Always meticulously verify the accuracy of citations generated by these tools by comparing them against official style manuals or reputable style guides.

Pay close attention to details such as author names, publication dates, and journal titles to ensure accuracy.

Best Practices for Using Citation Generators

Use citation generators as a starting point, not as a definitive solution.

Compare results with the examples in a trusted style manual or online style guide.

Develop a thorough understanding of the citation style you are using to ensure accuracy in all cases.

Exploring Online Style Guides

Online style guides provide comprehensive information and examples for various citation styles.

These resources can be invaluable for understanding the nuances of each style and ensuring accuracy in your citations.

Purdue OWL: A Comprehensive Resource

The Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) is a widely recognized and respected resource for citation and writing guidance.

Purdue OWL offers detailed explanations, examples, and tutorials for APA, MLA, Chicago, and other citation styles.

It is an excellent starting point for understanding citation principles and addressing specific citation questions.

Other Reputable Online Resources

In addition to Purdue OWL, numerous other reputable websites provide citation guidance.

Consult the official websites for APA and MLA for the most up-to-date information on their respective styles.

Be sure that the resources you consult are kept updated with the latest edition of the style that you need.

Utilizing the NASW Website

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) website is an essential resource for accessing the NASW Code of Ethics and related information.

As the primary source for the Code, the NASW website should be consulted for the most accurate and up-to-date version.

Additionally, the website may offer guidance on citing the Code itself, although specific citation style recommendations are typically found in APA, MLA, or other style manuals.

Overcoming Hurdles: Addressing Common Citation Challenges

Navigating the world of citations can present unique challenges, particularly when dealing with less conventional source materials or incomplete information.

Social workers encounter diverse sources in their research and practice, making it essential to develop strategies for accurately attributing information, even in tricky situations.

This section addresses frequently encountered citation challenges, providing guidance on how to handle these situations and ensure accurate attribution in diverse contexts.

Citing Online Sources: Websites, Blogs, and Social Media

The proliferation of online content presents unique citation challenges. Websites, blogs, and social media platforms are increasingly valuable sources of information, but they often lack the formal structure of traditional publications.

Websites

When citing a website, include the author (if available), date of publication or last update, title of the page or document, and the URL.

If no author is identified, use the organization or website name as the author.

For example, citing information from the National Association of Social Workers website would involve using "National Association of Social Workers" as the author if a specific author is not listed for the content.

Blogs

Citing blog posts requires including the author, date of publication, title of the post, and the URL.

If the author uses a pseudonym, use that name in the citation.

Also consider the reputation and reliability of the blog before using it as a source.

Social Media Content

Social media posts can be cited, but it's important to consider their ephemeral nature and potential for alteration.

Include the author's name or username, date of the post, and the content of the post (either in its entirety or a shortened version).

Provide a direct link to the post if possible.

It is essential to assess the credibility and context of social media sources before incorporating them into academic or professional work.

Handling Sources with No Author or Date

Sometimes, sources lack key pieces of information, such as an author or date of publication. While less than ideal, these sources can still be cited with appropriate adjustments.

No Author

If a source has no identifiable author, use the title of the work in place of the author's name in the citation.

In the reference list or works cited, alphabetize the entry by the first significant word of the title.

No Date

If a source has no date of publication, use the abbreviation "n.d." (for "no date") in place of the year.

This indicates that the publication date is unknown.

It is important to note that materials lacking both an author and a date should be approached cautiously, as their credibility might be questionable.

Citing Secondary Sources

A secondary source is one that cites or discusses another source (the primary source).

When possible, it is always preferable to consult and cite the primary source directly.

However, if the primary source is unavailable or inaccessible, you may need to cite the secondary source.

In this case, indicate that you are citing the secondary source and provide information about both the primary and secondary sources.

For example, in APA style, you might write: "Smith's study (as cited in Jones, 2020) found that..."

In the reference list, you would only include the details for the secondary source (Jones, 2020).

Citing Revised or Updated Materials

Many sources, especially online materials, are revised or updated over time. It's important to cite the specific version or edition you consulted.

Revised Editions of Books

For revised editions of books, include the edition number in the reference list entry.

This helps readers locate the exact version you used.

Updated Online Content

For online content that is regularly updated, include the date you accessed the information.

This indicates that the information may have changed since then.

If the online source provides a "last updated" date, use that in your citation.

Always strive to cite the most current and accurate version of any source to maintain scholarly integrity.

The High Cost of Plagiarism: Understanding the Consequences

Plagiarism, the act of presenting someone else's work as one's own, carries significant consequences in both academic and professional settings. For social workers, these consequences are amplified by the ethical responsibilities inherent in the profession.

A thorough understanding of these repercussions is crucial for upholding the values of integrity and honesty that are central to ethical social work practice.

Academic Repercussions of Plagiarism

In academic institutions, plagiarism is treated as a serious offense against scholarly integrity. Students found guilty of plagiarism face a range of penalties, reflecting the severity of the infraction.

Failing Grades and Course Failure

One of the most immediate consequences of plagiarism is receiving a failing grade on the specific assignment where the plagiarism occurred. Depending on the policies of the institution and the instructor, this can also lead to failing the entire course.

This can significantly impact a student's academic record and progress toward degree completion.

Suspension and Expulsion

In more severe cases of plagiarism, particularly those involving intentional or repeated instances, students may face suspension or even expulsion from their academic program.

These actions are reserved for situations where the plagiarism is deemed egregious, demonstrating a clear disregard for academic honesty.

Professional Ramifications of Plagiarism

The consequences of plagiarism extend far beyond the academic realm, impacting a social worker's professional career and reputation. Maintaining integrity is vital to successful practice.

Damage to Professional Reputation and Credibility

Plagiarism can irreparably damage a social worker's professional reputation and credibility. The social work profession relies heavily on trust and ethical conduct.

An accusation or finding of plagiarism can erode that trust, making it difficult to secure employment, gain the confidence of clients, or advance in one's career.

In social work, your reputation is your currency.

Potential Legal Repercussions

Plagiarism can also have legal ramifications, particularly if the plagiarized material is protected by copyright. Copyright infringement can lead to lawsuits and financial penalties.

Social workers who use copyrighted material without permission or proper attribution may be held liable for damages.

Ethical Implications for Social Workers

Beyond academic and professional sanctions, plagiarism poses serious ethical challenges for social workers. It directly contradicts the core values and principles of the profession.

Violation of the NASW Code of Ethics

The NASW Code of Ethics emphasizes the importance of integrity, honesty, and respect for the intellectual property of others. Plagiarism represents a direct violation of these ethical standards.

Social workers are expected to adhere to the highest ethical standards in all aspects of their practice, including research and writing.

Compromising Professional Integrity and Ethical Practice

Plagiarism compromises a social worker's professional integrity and undermines the ethical foundation of their practice. When a social worker engages in plagiarism, they erode the public's trust in the profession.

This can have a ripple effect, impacting the ability of social workers to advocate for clients, promote social justice, and provide effective services.

Therefore, it is important to uphold best practices.

So, there you have it! Citing the NASW Code of Ethics doesn't have to be a headache. Whether you're team APA or MLA, just remember these basic guidelines, and you'll be able to accurately represent this essential document in your work. Now, go forth and cite that NASW Code of Ethics like a pro!