What do professional ethics represent?

Professional ethics represent a system of rules for professional behavior that guide practitioners in their work. These ethics establish standards that dictate how professionals should conduct themselves in their interactions with clients, colleagues, and the broader community. They promote accountability, integrity, and the responsible practice of a profession, ensuring that professionals act in a manner that is respectful of the rights and dignity of others.

While client-centered guidelines, best practices, and advice for handling complaints are important aspects of professional conduct, they do not encompass the broader framework of ethical rules that define acceptable behavior within a profession. Professional ethics inform all aspects of a professional's duties and responsibilities, ensuring that decisions made and actions taken align with the values and principles of the profession as a whole. This foundational aspect helps maintain trust and confidence in the profession.