Which core value of social work is compromised when a client is coerced into treatment?

The correct choice emphasizes the fundamental social work value of recognizing the dignity and worth of every person. When a client is coerced into treatment, their autonomy and ability to make their own decisions are undermined, which directly contradicts this core value.

Acknowledging the dignity and worth of a person means respecting their choices and preferences, especially concerning personal health and treatment decisions. Coercion strips individuals of their right to self-determination, which can lead to feelings of resentment, powerlessness, and a diminished sense of self-worth. In social work practice, maintaining respect for a client's autonomy is crucial, as it fosters trust and positive engagement in the therapeutic process.

While other values such as integrity, service, and social justice are also important in social work practice, the coercive nature of forced treatment most significantly violates the principle of honoring and valuing the individual as a capable decision-maker. By focusing on the dignity and worth of a person, social workers can promote a more ethical practice that empowers clients rather than imposes solutions upon them.