Ethics and Ethical Decision Making

ethics

the moral principles that govern a persons conduct, and the branch of knowledge dealing with moral principles

Unethical behaviour

is dishonest, non-complicant with ethical standards, inconsistent with personal and social values, or negatively impacts on others

trust

clients seek help with the assumption their condition will improve and they will not be harmed

power

the trust bestowed in a professional relationship indicates a power imbalance

caring

responsiveness to the needs of the client in an emotionally charged context

the common sense, objectivity trap

based on the assumption that psychologists are inherently ethical and can rely on common sense to make ethical decisions

the values trap

based on confusion around what ethical codes are and are not, or when conflated with personal values, moral standards, or religious beliefs

professional ethical codes

accepted systems of conduct that guide the behaviour of professionals in their working relationships with clients, employers, communities, and peers

personal values

define what is important to the individual, often guiding major decisions

moral standards

guide everyday life, formed as general absolute positive statements but used as personal prohibitions

religious beliefs

guide both personal values and moral standards, as well as a sense of what is right and wrong behaviours in others

circumstantiality trap

the belief there are no right or wrong answers to ethical questions because their circumstances must be considered

the who will benefit trap

based on confusion around who will benefit from an ethical decision, and whether it will benefit them in the short or long term

APS code of ethics

sets out specific standards to guide psychologists and members of the public, outlining what is considered ethical and professional conduct

the overarching principles that guide ethical conduct for psychologists

dignity, equitability, prudence, honesty, openness, goodwill

principle A: respect for the rights and dignity of people and peoples

psychologists regard people as intrinsically valuable and promote peoples human, legal, and moral rights

principle B: propriety

psychologists ensure they are competent and provide services to benefit others; they promote the welfare of individuals and the profession

principle C: integrity

psychologists recognise they hold a position of power and trust over others and act accordingly

dual relationship

where there is a preexisting or developing relationship with a client that could compromise professional judgement or empathy