module 7; multiple relationships

Question 1

explain different types of multiple relationships that psychologists may face during their work with clients

Answer 1

The Code of Ethics states that multiple relationships occur when a psychologist, rendering a psychological service to a client, also is or has been:

1. in a non-professional relationship with the same client;
   2.in a different professional relationship with the same client;
   3.in a non-professional relationship with an associated party; or
   4.a recipient of a service provided by the same client.

Question 2

explain common motivators for or warning signs that psychologist-client multiple relationships may develop

Answer 2

If tend to socialise, work or communicate with people who are close to the client, risk of being too closely associated and risk of multiple relationship.
If can only describe your relationship as “I am his/her psychologist”, should be ok. But if could also describe your relationship as eg “Partner of my Mum’s best friend”/”he mows my lawns”/”is my accountant”/”I teach them” etc , are likely at risk of a multiple relationship.

Question 3

locate the sections of the Code and Guidelines that provide guidance on avoiding or handling multiple relationships for psychologists.

Answer 3

3

Question 4

how conflict of interest may arise

Answer 4

Here are some possible ways conflict of interest may arise for a psychologist:

Multiple Relationships: When a psychologist has a professional relationship with a client that extends beyond the therapeutic setting, such as being a friend, business partner, or family member, it can create conflicts of interest.

Financial Interests: Financial arrangements, such as receiving compensation for referrals to specific services or products, may compromise a psychologist’s objectivity and impartiality in providing recommendations or advice to clients.

Professional Affiliations: Membership in professional organisations, affiliations with specific treatment modalities, or financial ties to particular therapeutic approaches may influence a psychologist’s recommendations or interventions, potentially conflicting with the client’s best interests.

Research and Publication: In academic or research settings, conflicts of interest may arise when psychologists have financial or professional incentives to produce particular research outcomes or to promote specific findings that align with their personal or institutional interests.

Legal or Forensic Roles: Psychologists involved in legal or forensic evaluations may face conflicts of interest when their professional opinions or testimony are influenced by external factors, such as the interests of the retaining party or pressure to reach a particular conclusion.

Supervisory Relationships: Psychologists in supervisory roles may encounter conflicts of interest when they have personal or professional relationships with supervisees that could impact their ability to provide fair and unbiased evaluation, feedback, or guidance.

Confidentiality and Privacy: Conflicts of interest may arise when psychologists have access to confidential information about multiple parties (e.g., in family therapy, friends, or organisational consulting) and must navigate competing obligations to maintain privacy while ensuring the safety and well-being of all involved.

Dual Roles in Community Settings: Psychologists working in small communities or specialised settings may face conflicts of interest when they must balance their professional roles with personal or community affiliations, potentially compromising their ability to maintain objectivity and impartiality.