Ethics are an important concern in psychology, particularly regarding therapy and research.
Working with patients and conducting psychological research can pose various ethical and moral issues that must be addressed.
When Did the APA Publish Its Code of Ethics?
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The APA first published its ethics code in 1953 and has been continuously evolving the code ever since.
What’s in the APA’s Code of Ethics?
Private conduct is not subject to scrutiny by the APA’s ethics committee.
This principle encourages psychologists to strive to eliminatebiases, affiliations, and prejudices that might influence their work.
This principle suggests that psychologists should participate in activities that enhance the ethical compliance and conduct of their colleagues.
Psychologists are also encouraged to donate some of their time to the betterment of the community.
Principle C: Integrity
In research and practice, psychologists should never attempt to deceive or misrepresent.
It is important for psychologists to treat people equally.
They apply to areas such as education, therapy, advertising, privacy, research, and publication.
This includes advice for what researchers should do when their work is misrepresented and when to report ethical violations.
2: Competence
Psychologists must practice within their areas of expertise.
3: Human Relations
Psychologists frequently work with a team of other mental health professionals.
This standard of the ethics code is designed to guide psychologists in their interactions with others in the field.
However, the APA also notes that there are limitations to confidentiality.
In cases where information must be divulged, psychologists must strive to minimize these intrusions on privacy and confidentiality.
They also need to avoid marketing statements that are deceptive or false.
Patient records includecase notesand other diagnostic assessments used in the course of treatment.
In terms of research, record-keeping involves detailing how studies were performed and the procedures that were used.
This allows other researchers to assess the research and ensures that the study can be replicated.
This standard also states that faculty members are not allowed to provide psychotherapy services to their students.
8: Research and Publication
This standard focuses onethical considerations when conducting research and publishing results.
9: Assessment
Psychologists should obtain informed consent before administering assessments.
They should also take steps to ensure the privacy of those who have taken assessments.
10: Therapy
This standard outlines professional expectations within the context of providing therapy.
Areas that are addressed include the importance of obtaining informed consent and explaining the treatment process to clients.
What Happens When a Therapist Violates the APA Code of Ethics?
Complaints may be referred to others, including state professional licensing boards.
Those affected by ethical violations may also opt to seek monetary damages in civil courts.
Illegal activity may be prosecuted in criminal courts.
How Can I Report a Therapist for Unethical Behavior?
Unfortunately, therapists do commit ethical violations.
If you would like to file a complaint against a therapist, contact your state’s psychologist licensing board.
How to Find Your State’s Psychologist Board
Here is a list of the U.S. psychology boards.
Choose your state and refer to the contact information provided.
American Psychological Association.Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct.
Amended by APA Council of Representatives, August 2015.
Washington, DC: American Psychological Association 2020 https://www.apa.org/about/policy/national-security
