Ch 6. Confidentiality, Privacy, Disclosure

Question 1

What is confidentiality, in terms of professional psychology?

Answer 1

a duty to preserve the secrecy of info disclosed/obtained through the relationship with a client (management, storage, disposal of client files)

Question 2

What is an example of a legal obligation to disclose client info without their consent?

Answer 2

with a subpoena/search warrent (eg. drug use, fire arm ability)

Question 3

What legislation exists that contains 13 privacy principles?

Answer 3

Commonwealth Government Legislation Privacy Act (1988) - health information considered sensitive information

Question 4

Is the client/psychologist relationship an ethical matter relating more to confidentiality of privacy

Answer 4

confidentiality; but privacy principles may be becoming more dominant

Question 5

What is meant by the term “mature minor”?

Answer 5

when a child is under 18, but competent of making decisions in relation to treatment

Question 6

What are the main ethical issues involved with confidentiality? (4)

Answer 6

integrity, respect, utilitarian, beneficent

Question 7

Explain the legislation regarding “Freedom of Information”.

Answer 7

under legislation, clients have a right to access records made in relation to their treatment, and may in some circumstances request that errors be corrected

Question 8

According to Kitchner (1984), psychological ethical practise is based on what 5 ethical principles?

Answer 8

do good/benefit others, not harm, respect others autonomy, act fairly/justly, faithful to commitments

Question 9

What is the difference between crossings and violations of boundaries?

Answer 9

crossings - departures from commonly accepted practise that at least some psychologists consider appropriate
violations - departures from practise that place clients’ interests at serious risks