ETHICS AND FORENSIC PSYCH PRACTICE

What are the 5 key ethical principles in forensic psychology? (druci)

• Informed Consent

• Confidentiality

• Dual Roles & Conflict of Interest

• Use of Standardised Tests

• Record-keeping

What challenges arise with informed consent in forensic psychology?

Clients may be mandated/coerced; limited capacity due to youth, cognitive impairment, psychosis, intoxication, literacy, or language barriers.

How can psychologists address informed consent challenges?

Provide clear, simple info about therapy/assessment; stress voluntary nature; check understanding; regularly assess capacity; involve guardians/interpreters if needed; obtain assent; document the process

Why is confidentiality limited in forensic psychology?

Clients include courts, corrections, MHRT, lawyers. Assessments often lack confidentiality. Legal overrides apply (subpoenas, court orders). Clients may misunderstand limits

How can psychologists manage confidentiality challenges?

Explain limits clearly at outset; give regular reminders; involve clients in disclosures where possible; document discussions; seek supervision

What dual roles and conflicts of interest can occur in forensic psychology?

Clients include both individuals and third parties (courts, corrections, society). Psychologists may be both assessor and therapist, which risks impartiality

how can psychologists address dual roles and conflicts of interest?

Avoid multiple roles where possible; seek supervision; disclose dual roles to clients and third parties; document decisions; prioritise objectivity; follow expert witness code of conduct

What are the challenges of using standardised tests in forensic psychology?

Many tools not normed/validated for forensic groups; forensic tools have gaps (e.g., cultural factors, female offenders, extremism); validity impacted by coercion, motivation, malingering, and prison environment.

How can psychologists manage challenges with standardised tests?

Use tools only if trained; keep knowledge updated; explain purpose/limits; check cultural validity; document reasoning; avoid unsuitable tools; educate report readers on interpretations.

Why is record-keeping challenging in forensic psychology?

High likelihood of subpoena; notes may be accessed by organisations; records can affect legal outcomes; may disadvantage clients or erode trust

How can psychologists manage record-keeping challenges?

Negotiate scope of subpoenas; disclose only relevant info; keep accurate, objective, defensible records; separate hypotheses from fact; avoid unnecessary labels; seek supervision/legal advice.

What other considerations are important in forensic psychology ethics?

Competency, cultural/contextual awareness, understanding systemic issues in the legal system, and self-care to manage the challenges of the work