Description

According to Frank Loewenberg and Ralph Dolgoff, developing a code of ethics is a significant stage for any profession. “For most American occupational groups the development of a code of ethics coincided, more or less, with the decision to formalize the transformation of the occupation into a profession.” The transformation to a profession allows those working in the profession continuity and heightened sense of purpose. It allows those outside of the profession to realize the integrity and importance of the profession.

When OST/SAC professionals develop, adopt, and adhere to a Code of Ethics, they are guided by underlying principles that represent the values of the OST field. These underlying principles help them determine appropriate courses of action when they face ethical issues as they work with children, parents, colleagues, and community members.