Christian Values in Social Work Professional Neutrality in the Field of Tension between Personal Beliefs and their Effect on the Client Relationship

Context and Academic FrameworkThis research study is an original scholarly work conducted within an independent academic framework and prepared in accordance with established research and publication standards. The study is presented for academic dissemination and contributes to ongoing scholarly dialogue within its relevant disciplinary field.

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Abstract

This study explores the complex relationship between professional neutrality and Christian values in social work. While social workers are required to uphold ethical guidelines that emphasize neutrality, human dignity, and self-determination, many practitioners inevitably bring personal values—particularly religious ones—into their professional practice. The analysis highlights how Christian values such as charity, mercy, justice, and respect for human dignity can serve as powerful resources for building trust, empathy, and motivation in client relationships. At the same time, these values carry risks, such as paternalism or unintended missionary influence, if applied without reflection. The work emphasizes that neutrality in social work should not be understood as value-free but as a regulatory principle designed to safeguard plurality and client autonomy. Through a literature-based, theoretical approach, the study presents both opportunities and risks, ultimately calling for self-reflection, supervision, and clear institutional frameworks to ensure balanced, ethically responsible practice.