Ethics

Question 1

Teleological theory

Answer 1

They are sometimes described as ‘consequentialist’ theories are characterized by a focus on outcomes.
Focus on motivation and consequence.

Question 2

Deontological theory

Answer 2

Based on notion on duties and obligations.

Question 3

Egoistic hedonism

Answer 3

1 of 2 manifestations of teleological theories. Broadly viewed as self‐interest, a commonly used implicit philosophical model in much work attempting to understand or predict human behaviour.

Question 4

Utilitarianism

Answer 4

1 of 2 manifestations of teleological theories. Opposed to egoistic hedonism it places focus the maximum utility or benefit for the majority.

Question 5

Ethical decision‐making needs to..

Answer 5

.. be both well reasoned and fair-minded. (Thomson, 2006)

Question 6

General professional ethics (from United Nations, 1948)

Answer 6

To protect human rights while also providing
professionals and those in receipt of professional services with guidance about the principles underpinning behavioural expectations

The are not exclusive to the forensics field!

Question 7

The APA set of ethical principles and code of conduct has two key sections, what are they?

Answer 7

1st on general ethical principles and the 2nd on ethical standards (APA, 2002)

Question 8

5 general underlying ethical principles are

Answer 8

1. Beneficence and non‐maleficence,
2. Fidelity and responsibility,
3. Integrity,
4. Justice
5. Respect for people’s rights and dignity.

Question 9

Power relationship in forensic context

Answer 9

The service reciver has a limited choice
(if any are tangible) serves to augment the already
markedly skewed existing power relationships.

Forensic faciliteis and practitioners are supported by the UK governemnt by financial and general support (cultivating positive image) vs. prisoners are not allowed to vote or leave the prison + not a lot of support for prisoners in general

Offenders usually come from socially disadvantaged backgrounds vs. psychologists come from socially advantaged backgrounds = inequality

Question 10

Ethics in pracitce

Answer 10

There is an expectation that a professional will make an informed independent decision, taking account of guidance but retaining their accountability for their actions and inactions.
Enageg in self-reflection- how our past experiences and position affects our judgmened + we are not ‘following guidelined’, this does not make us not responsible for our actions [reflective practice link!]