Week 7: Ethical Considerations

Question 1

What is the importance of regulating the practice of psychology?

Answer 1

• to protect the public from incompetent, unethical or harmful practitioners
• to formally recognize the body of knowledge psychologists possess
• to protect the use of the title, both for professionals and the public

Question 2

What are the three types of rules that govern the practice of psychology?

Answer 2

• standards of practice
• ethical codes
• laws

Question 3

What is the standards of practice?

Answer 3

• more specific guidance
• define the quality of service the public should receive
• specify appropriate professional behaviour

Question 4

What are ethical codes?

Answer 4

• broad
• aspirational
• difficult to enforce

Question 5

What are laws?

Answer 5

• limit who can practice psychology
• general limits and requirements of practice

Question 6

What are the four principles of the CPA Code of Ethics?

Answer 6

Principle I: Respect for the Dignity of Persons and Peoples
Principle II: Responsible Caring
Principle III: Integrity in Relationships
Principle IV: Responsibility to Society

Question 7

What is Principle I: Respect for the Dignity of Persons and Peoples?

Answer 7

• recognizing the innate worth of all persons
• right to non-discrimination and justice

Question 8

What are the key components of Principle I?

Answer 8

• respect
• not infringing on the rights of others
• non-discrimination
• fair treatment of others
• informed and free consent
• protecting vulnerable individuals/groups
• privacy
• confidentiality

Question 9

What is Principle II: Responsible Caring?

Answer 9

maximizing the benefits and minimizing harm

Question 10

What are the key components of Principle II?

Answer 10

• general caring
• practicing competently
• considering risk/benefit balances
• maximizing benefits
• minimizing harm
• correcting or offsetting harm
• treating animals humanely

Question 11

What is Principle III: Integrity in Relationships?

Answer 11

being accurate, honest and objective

Question 12

What are the key components of Principle III?

Answer 12

• accuracy and honesty
• being objective and unbiased
• being straightforward and open
• avoiding incomplete disclosure or deception
• being familiar with the discipline’s rules and regulations
• avoiding conflicts of interests

Question 13

What is Principle IV: Responsibility to Society?

Answer 13

considering the greater good of society by increasing knowledge and promoting welfare of all humans

Question 14

What are the key components of Principle IV?

Answer 14

• contributing to the development of knowledge
• contributing to activities that will benefit society
• respecting the society in which we live

Question 15

What is an ethical dilemma?

Answer 15

the principles of the code conflict

Question 16

What happens when there is an ethical dilemma?

Answer 16

the principles are prioritized in order

Question 17

What are the steps in ethical decision-making?

Answer 17

1. identify the individuals/groups affected by the decision
2. identify the ethical issues of any individuals and groups involved
3. consider how your own biases, external pressures, interests, needs, or background might influence your decision-making
4. develop alternative courses of action
5. analyze the short- and long-term risks and benefits of each course of action
6. choose a course of action