Code of conduct

Question 1

What are the four ethical principles identified by the BPS code of ethics and conduct?

Answer 1

1- Respect
2- Competence
3- Responsibility
4- Integrity

Question 2

Explain the competence principle.

Answer 2

Psychologists should maintain high standards in their professional work.

Question 3

How should responsibility be dealt with by psychologists?

Answer 3

They have a responsibility to protect participants from psychological and physical harm, as well as debriefing at the conclusion of their participation.

Question 4

Explain the principle of integrity.

Answer 4

Psychologists should be honest and accurate, this includes reporting findings accurately and acknowledging limitations.

Question 5

Explain the principle of respect - what does it include?

Answer 5

Includes standards of privacy and confidentiality and informed consent.

Question 6

Is it acceptable to observe public behaviour without informed consent?

Answer 6

YES. But only in situations where the people being studied would reasonably expect to be observed by strangers.

Question 7

When is intentional deception (lack of informed consent) acceptable?

Answer 7

Only acceptable when it is necessary to protect the integrity of the research. Deception must be disclosed to participants at the earliest opportunity

Question 8

How can Psychologists judge when deception is unacceptable?

Answer 8

Consider if participants are likely to object when debriefed

Question 9

When can participants withdraw from a study?

Answer 9

Participants should be aware of the right to withdraw from the research at any time

Question 10

When is intentional deception (lack of informed consent) acceptable?

Answer 10

Only acceptable when it is necessary to protect the integrity of the research (knowing the aims may alter behaviour, rendering results meaningless). Deception must be disclosed to participants at the earliest opportunity