Which principle is included in the Ethical Standards for Certified Peer Support Workers (CPSW)?

The principle of competency is a fundamental element of the Ethical Standards for Certified Peer Support Workers. This principle underscores the importance of having the requisite knowledge, skills, and training to provide effective support to individuals facing mental health challenges or substance use disorders. Competency involves not only understanding the principles of peer support and recovery but also being able to apply them in practice, ensuring that the support provided is both safe and effective.

By adhering to the competency principle, CPSWs can build trust and rapport with those they support, as recipients of peer support will be more confident in the skills and knowledge of their support workers. This principle also ensures that CPSWs are continually seeking to improve their skills and stay informed about best practices, which contributes to the overall quality of care in the peer support field.

In contrast, other options such as maximizing profits do not align with the ethical responsibilities of peer support workers, as the focus should be on the well-being of the individuals they support rather than financial gain. The principle of personal beliefs refers to individual values and perspectives but is secondary to the professional responsibilities of CPSWs. Assumptions of capability may relate to biases that hinder effective support if not addressed, but they do not pertain to the Ethical Standards directly as competency does.