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Ethics and the ASWB Exam: 4.04 Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception

Ethics and the ASWB Exam: 4.04 Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception

Preparing for the ASWB exam isn’t just about memorizing facts or learning clinical theories. It’s also about understanding the ethical framework that guides every aspect of Social Work. One section that deserves special attention is 4.04 of the NASW Code of Ethics, which addresses Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception. This standard outlines how Social Workers must act with integrity, honesty, and transparency in all professional interactions.

This part of the Code might sound straightforward at first, but it carries a lot of weight both on the exam and in real-world practice. Ethical lapses, even unintentional ones, can have serious consequences. That’s why the ASWB exam includes questions that challenge you to recognize potential violations and choose responses that align with ethical principles. Being well-versed in section 4.04 can make the difference between passing the test and falling short.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why 4.04 Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception is so crucial. You’ll learn what this standard means in practice, how it shows up in test scenarios, and what tools you can use to master it. We’ll also introduce Agents of Change, a trusted study resource that offers structured support and unlimited access until you pass, helping you build confidence and stay on track every step of the way.

Learn more about the ASWB exam and create a personalized ASWB study plan with Agents of Change. We’ve helped tens of thousands of Social Workers pass their ASWB exams and want to help you be next!

1) What Is 4.04 Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception?

Section 4.04 of the NASW Code of Ethics is a cornerstone of professional integrity in Social Work. It directly addresses the ethical obligation to be truthful and transparent across all professional roles and relationships. This section applies to everything from documentation and billing to job applications and everyday interactions with clients and colleagues.

a therapist being dishonest with another therapist in the office. they can be dressed somewhat casually in a warm office environment

Here is the full text of Section 4.04 as written in the NASW Code of Ethics:

4.04 Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception

(a) Social Workers should not participate in, condone, or be associated with dishonesty, fraud, or deception.

(b) Social Workers should take reasonable steps to ensure that their representations to clients, agencies, and the public are accurate.

This brief section carries a powerful message. Let’s break it down to understand exactly what it demands from Social Workers and what it means for the ASWB exam.

1. “Social Workers should not participate in, condone, or be associated with dishonesty, fraud, or deception.” (4.04a)

This first part sets the baseline expectation: Social Workers must act honestly and avoid all forms of misrepresentation. That includes intentional acts like lying on reports, but also extends to failing to correct misinformation or looking the other way when someone else acts unethically.

Key takeaways:

  • You cannot falsify documentation, even if it seems harmless.

  • “Condoning” dishonest behavior includes staying silent when a colleague is acting unethically.

  • Being “associated with” dishonest acts can be enough to raise concerns about your professional conduct.

For the ASWB exam, you may be asked to spot subtle violations like turning a blind eye to improper billing or staying quiet when a client believes something that’s untrue, even if you didn’t cause the misunderstanding directly.

2. “Social Workers should take reasonable steps to ensure that their representations to clients, agencies, and the public are accurate.” (4.04b)

This second part moves beyond outright fraud and into the realm of representation. It refers to the way you present yourself: your qualifications, your services, even the language you use in advertising or communication.

Key takeaways:

  • Don’t exaggerate your experience, licenses, or competencies.

  • Double-check that the information you provide, whether in writing or verbally, is truthful and up to date.

  • You have a responsibility to correct misunderstandings, especially when they could impact client outcomes or agency decisions.

This is where ethics meet practicality. Whether it’s creating a therapy brochure or updating a LinkedIn profile, Social Workers are expected to be accurate and honest in how they represent themselves and the profession.

Section 4.04 is clear, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Ethical decisions often happen in real time and under pressure. That’s why understanding the heart of this standard and practicing how to apply it is vital for passing the ASWB exam and thriving in your professional life.

Agents of Change packages include 30+ ASWB topics, 2 free study groups per month, and hundreds of practice questions so you’ll be ready for test day!

2) Why Understanding 4.04 Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception Matters on the ASWB Exam

Ethical conduct is at the very core of the Social Work profession, and the ASWB exam is designed to assess whether you truly understand that responsibility. Section 4.04 of the NASW Code of Ethics, which focuses on Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception, often shows up in exam scenarios because it reflects real-life challenges Social Workers face. The exam doesn’t just test your knowledge of the rule, it checks your judgment in complex, often subtle situations.

a therapist being dishonest with another therapist in the office. they can be dressed somewhat casually in a warm office environment

Let’s break down why this section matters so much for the exam and how you can be prepared.

The ASWB Exam Tests More Than Facts

While knowing the Code is important, the ASWB exam is structured to test your ethical decision-making in context. You’ll need to:

  • Identify ethical breaches when they are not obvious

  • Choose the most ethical option, not just a good one

  • Understand the consequences of dishonesty for both clients and the profession

These questions can be tricky. A response that seems helpful on the surface might still cross ethical lines. That’s why your preparation needs to go beyond memorization.

Ethics Questions Are Often Situational

Many exam items won’t say, “Is this ethical?” Instead, they’ll present a realistic scenario and ask what you should do next. This is where 4.04 comes in. You’ll have to recognize when actions like omission, vague communication, or passive agreement turn into ethical violations.

Scenarios could include:

  • A colleague exaggerating their credentials in a staff meeting

  • A supervisor telling you to alter service dates to match billing records

  • A client assuming you provide services outside your scope, and you don’t correct them

Each of these touches on dishonesty, fraud, or deception, even if they don’t involve outright lying.

What the ASWB Is Really Looking For

When you see questions about this topic, the exam is testing your ability to:

  • Uphold professional integrity

  • Protect the reputation of the Social Work field

  • Respond appropriately when others act unethically

  • Take responsibility for correcting errors

The best responses often involve transparency, documentation, and consultation with supervisors or ethics boards. Avoid options that suggest covering up, waiting it out, or ignoring the issue.

Top Tips for Tackling 4.04-Related Questions

To improve your chances of getting these questions right, keep these strategies in mind:

✔ Always choose honesty over convenience
✔ When in doubt, consult a supervisor or ethics committee
✔ If a mistake was made, report and correct it
✔ Never misrepresent yourself, your skills, or services
✔ Don’t stay silent when someone else is behaving unethically

Use Your Study Tools Wisely

Understanding section 4.04 takes more than a quick review. This is where Agents of Change makes a difference. Their resources walk you through ethical scenarios using:

  • Full-length practice exams with realistic ethics questions

  • Flashcards focused on Code of Ethics sections

  • Live study groups where you can talk through gray areas

  • A structured study plan so you can stay consistent

With access until you pass, there’s no pressure to rush or time your purchase. Agents of Change is built for long-term support, not short-term cramming.

Mastering 4.04 isn’t just about passing a test. It’s about proving that you’re ready to take on the ethical demands of Social Work in a way that protects both clients and the profession. Understanding this section prepares you for the real world and helps you earn your license with confidence.

3) ASWB Practice Question: 4.04 Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception

A Social Worker has recently opened a private practice and is creating a website to promote her services. She lists herself as a “clinical expert in trauma therapy,” although she has not completed any formal training or certification in trauma-focused approaches. She believes her general experience with clients who’ve faced trauma qualifies her to make this claim. What is the BEST course of action the Social Worker should take?

A. Leave the description as-is, since she has worked with trauma survivors
B. Reword the website to reflect her actual experience without exaggerating her expertise
C. Remove all references to trauma to avoid any possible ethical issue
D. Ask a peer to review the website and give feedback before making changes

Correct Answer:
B. Reword the website to reflect her actual experience without exaggerating her expertise

Rationale:
This scenario falls squarely under Section 4.04 of the NASW Code of Ethics: Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception. Specifically, subsection (b) requires Social Workers to ensure their representations to clients and the public are accurate. By labeling herself a “clinical expert in trauma therapy” without the appropriate credentials or training, the Social Worker is misrepresenting her qualifications. That’s a form of deception, even if it wasn’t intentionally harmful.

Answer B is correct because it directly addresses the ethical obligation to be truthful while still allowing the Social Worker to highlight her relevant experience honestly.
Answer A is incorrect because experience alone doesn’t justify the use of specialized titles.
Answer C is overly cautious and unnecessary — Social Workers can state relevant experience, as long as it’s accurate.
Answer D might be helpful, but it doesn’t resolve the ethical issue on its own. The responsibility to correct the misrepresentation still falls on the Social Worker.

This question reflects how the ASWB exam tests your ability to recognize ethical missteps and choose the most responsible, professional response.

4) FAQs – Code of Ethics: 4.04 Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception

Q: Can a Social Worker violate 4.04 Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception without realizing it?

A: Yes, absolutely. Many ethical missteps occur unintentionally, often due to assumptions or a lack of attention to detail. For example, a Social Worker might list outdated credentials, misstate service capabilities, or fail to correct a client’s misunderstanding about fees or treatment options.

According to 4.04(b), Social Workers are responsible for ensuring that all representations to clients, agencies, and the public are accurate. This means you need to stay vigilant, update materials regularly, and clarify any inaccuracies, even if you didn’t mean to mislead anyone. Unintentional dishonesty can still damage client trust and lead to disciplinary action.

Q: If I witness a colleague acting dishonestly, am I required to report it?

A: Yes, in most situations. Section 4.04(a) doesn’t just prohibit personal dishonesty, it also prohibits condoning or being associated with unethical behavior. That means turning a blind eye to a colleague’s fraud, misrepresentation, or deception could make you complicit.

The ethical approach is to take reasonable steps to address the issue. This often begins with consulting a supervisor or ethics board, documenting your concerns, and following organizational or licensing board procedures for reporting. Staying silent isn’t a neutral act; it can be seen as allowing the behavior to continue.

Q: How can I prepare for questions about 4.04 on the ASWB exam?

A: The best preparation includes more than memorizing the Code of Ethics. You’ll need to practice applying ethical standards to realistic, sometimes ambiguous, scenarios. Look for study programs that help you build that skill set. Agents of Change is a trusted resource for this very reason. They offer:

  • Full-length, exam-style practice questions focused on ethics

  • Two live study groups each month, where you can work through gray-area situations with others

  • Flashcards that reinforce the meaning and application of standards like 4.04

  • A structured study plan to keep you on track

  • Unlimited access until you pass, so you can start preparing now without pressure

Understanding section 4.04 isn’t just about passing the test. It’s about becoming the kind of Social Worker who earns and maintains public trust, starting on day one of your career.

5) Conclusion

Understanding Ethics and the ASWB Exam: 4.04 Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception is a crucial step toward becoming a competent and trusted Social Worker. This section of the NASW Code of Ethics may seem short, but its impact is wide-reaching. It calls on you to be honest, transparent, and accountable in every aspect of your professional role. Whether you’re filling out documentation, marketing your services, or responding to clients, the expectation is clear: integrity must lead your decisions.

The ASWB exam uses ethics questions like these to evaluate more than what you know. It measures how well you apply ethical reasoning in complex, real-life scenarios. To succeed, you need more than surface-level familiarity. You need to internalize what these standards look like in action. This is where quality preparation makes all the difference. With the right tools and support, you can sharpen your decision-making skills and walk into the exam with confidence.

► Learn more about the Agents of Change course here: https://agentsofchangeprep.com

About the Instructor, Dr. Meagan Mitchell: Meagan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been providing individualized and group test prep for the ASWB for over 10 years. From all of this experience helping others pass their exams, she created the Agents of Change course to help you prepare for and pass the ASWB exam!

Find more from Agents of Change here:

► Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aswbtestprep

► Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agents-of-change-sw

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Disclaimer: This content has been made available for informational and educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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