Abstract

This chapter provides two key concepts – "moral courage" and "moral distress" – in social work education and practice. It looks at the historical background of the two concepts and examines the leading definitions and search for different types. The chapter also examines the relationship between the two concepts and the social work profession, as well as possible causes and effects on social workers and students. It discusses specific strategies for acting with moral courage and dealing with moral distress in social work practice. In order to present a clear and complete view of the two concepts, it look for relevant literature in other fields that use the concepts of moral courage and moral distress more fully. The chapter describes the three main types of courage physical courage, psychological courage and moral courage. The concepts of “moral courage” and “moral distress” play key roles in social workers’ professional well-being and performance.