Advertising (5.01-5.06)

Question 1

Are psychologists allowed to advertise a skill they have not completely mastered?

Answer 1

No

Question 2

What is a public statement?

Answer 2

Any written or oral statement in any form other than an entirely private conversation or letter

Question 3

When a psychologists hires someone to create a public statement for them, who assumes liability for the statement?

Answer 3

Psychologists retain responsibility for public statements even when they hire someone else to promote them or their practice

Question 4

If an employee makes a deceptive statement, who assumes liability for the statement?

Answer 4

Psychologists must try to prevent others (e.g., employers) from making any deceptive statements and correct them when possible

Question 5

Can a psychologist pay a reporter for an article?

Answer 5

It is prohibited to compensate a media employee for publicity or reporting

Question 6

Can psychologists place ads in newspapers?

Answer 6

Yes. When paid ads are used, they must be identified as such.

Question 7

Can an advertisement for a workshop brochure include information different from what will be discussed during the workshop?

Answer 7

No

Question 8

Can therapists provide advice publicly?

Answer 8

Yes. When psychologists provide public advice, their statements must be based on appropriate psychological literature and practice, must be consistent with the Ethics Code.

Question 9

What must a psychologist do before providing advice publicly?

Answer 9

They must make clear that there is no therapeutic relationship established.

Question 10

Can psychologists ask for testimonials?

Answer 10

They may never be solicited from current clients or from any persons who are vulnerable to undue influence

Question 11

Who can a psychologist ask for testimonials?

Answer 11

Previous clients, especially those who they know they will never treat ever again.

Question 12

Can a psychologist solicit new business?

Answer 12

Solicitation of new business is prohibited when people are vulnerable to undue influence.

When they are vulnerable, they will say yes to anything.

Question 13

Give an example of an ethical solicitation

Answer 13

It would be ethical to work with a community disaster response team, assessing affected individuals and giving them appropriate referrals for treatment.

Question 14

Give an example of an unethical solicitation

Answer 14

It would be unethical for a psychologist to walk up to people involved in a car accident and encourage them to come to the psychologist’s office for treatment