Professionals recognize the impact of society in creating and maintaining the problems and issues faced by persons who are perceived as different from the norm of mainstream society. Professionals are committed to the belief that all human beings are of equal worth. They are interested in empowering vulnerable persons so that they have equal opportunities in mainstream society, recognizing that in addition to personal coping skills this requires political and social changes. Professionals are particularly cognizant of power differentials in society that discriminate against diverse populations. Professionals recognize that in order to care adequately for the welfare of others, and especially for the welfare of those who are vulnerable, dependent, or suffer oppression and discrimination in society, they need to be competent in their professional activities.
Competence requires specific knowledge, skills and attitudes used for the benefit of others.
Competence also requires that professionals monitor their own fund of knowledge, personal values, experiences, biases, attitudes and socialization which influence how they practice. Professionals also act to maintain their level of competence. Providing incompetent services places others at risk of harm. The principle of Integrity in Relationships requires that professionals be honest, open, objective and accurate in all their professional activities. They avoid dishonesty, deception, bias, and inaccuracy.