Collegial ethics: What, why and how

Abstract

Collegial Ethics (CE) proposes that we support our colleagues whenever possible. It is more of a focus on the feelings of others rather than on our own. In spite of the importance of collegial interactions, CE is not usually taught. Courses in CE need to be developed, and collegial skills need to be identified, taught and practiced. Such skills would include: use of the golden rule, supportive communication, conflict resolution, and even the development of greater courage in our actions.

Collegial Ethics: Supporting Our Colleagues

“…The setting for this essay is academia, but it, of course, applies to any community or group. It also summarizes and extends an earlier communication (Kuhar 2011). …”

“…Note that this is specifically not about how to accuse, address or prosecute faculty who get into trouble; this is about how to support faculty, even those who are injured or in some sort of peril or conflict, if it is appropriate. Because these situations take on ethical issues, this topic is called “collegial ethics” (Kuhar 2011). A compilation of all methods and approaches for supporting colleagues would take up volumes, but we will address a few that we have experienced and discussed over the years.…”

“…We have to be careful about how we talk about a given situation or colleagues (Kuhar 2011). Unfortunately, the language used in conversations about hurt or accused colleagues is often not helpful and is often more like judgmental “gossip” or posturing than thoughtful discussion.…”

Pedagogical Dilemmas for Social Work in Academia

“…Wooten and Condis (2018) indicated that universities should develop a toolkit for formulating policies and statements for collegiality. Kuhar (2011) suggested that collegial ethics should include mutual support. Furthermore, Kuhar (2011) indicated that ethics that guide collegiality enhance employees' mental well-being.…”

“…Kuhar (2011) suggested that collegial ethics should include mutual support. Furthermore, Kuhar (2011) indicated that ethics that guide collegiality enhance employees' mental well-being. To this end, appropriate communication and conflict resolution should be addressed in the institution's code of conduct.…”