Psychologist Misconduct and Public Protection

Question 1

How is psychologist misconduct defined?

Answer 1

unprofessional conduct by the practitioner that amounts to conduct that is substantially below standard reasonably expected of a registered health professional of an equivalent level of training and experience

Question 2

The fact that the Registration scheme in Australia is a protective jurisdiction means what for psychologists?

Answer 2

they are granted an unrestricted license to practise psych, but have certain obligations to maintain that registration

Question 3

What are most complaints against psychologists about?

Answer 3

poor professional communication (confidentiality, rude, disciplinacy manner, misleading info)

Question 4

How can misconduct be prevented in terms of poor professional communication?

Answer 4

dignity/respect, spend time explaining treatment/limits of confidentiality/consent, mindful of diversity, maintaining all docs

Question 5

How can misconduct be prevented in terms of professional incompetency?

Answer 5

evidence based guidelines, established methods, recognise limits/don’t practise outside competence, consult senior staff, continued professional development

Question 6

How can misconduct be prevented in terms of poor professional reports?

Answer 6

continued professional development, best practise report writing, professional ethics/obligations above needs of the individual

Question 7

How can misconduct be prevented in terms of poor business practises?

Answer 7

clients understand/agree with charges, professional/modern business practise, clear up to date docs, clear intellectial/commercial property arrangements

Question 8

How can misconduct be prevented in terms of boundary violation?

Answer 8

work in acceptable ways to society, only work business hours and in group practises, maintain separation between work and private life, regular supervision

Question 9

How can misconduct be prevented in terms of impairment, character, or health problems?

Answer 9

healthy work/life balance, don’t practise when impaired/majpr stress, comply with law, mandatory reported, adverts and other registration board requirements

Question 10

What amount of complaints received to the board proceed to investigation/enquiry?

Answer 10

2/3