Code of Ethics for Philippine Psychologists

Overview of the Code of Ethics for Philippine Psychologists and Psychometricians

  • The Code establishes ethical guidelines for psychologists in the Philippines, emphasizing professional conduct and social responsibility.

Revision History

  • 1980s: The original Code was adopted.
  • 2007-2009: A committee was formed to revise the Code to make it inclusive and applicable to all psychologists.
  • August 26, 2022: The latest version of the Code was approved, reflecting current ethical standards and technological advances.

Declaration of Principles

  • Psychologists must place the welfare of society above personal or professional interests.
  • Universal Declaration of Ethical Principles for Psychologists: Adopted in 2008, provides ethical guidance.

Fundamental Ethical Principles

  1. Respect for the Dignity of Persons and Peoples

    • Recognizes the inherent worth of all human beings regardless of differences.
    • Values include:
      • Individual worth
      • Diversity and customs
      • Free and informed consent
      • Privacy and confidentiality
      • Fair treatment and respect for the environment

  2. Competent Caring for the Well-Being of Persons and Peoples

    • Involves maximizing benefits and minimizing harm.
    • Focuses on establishing beneficial relationships while underlining self-awareness in practice.

  3. Integrity

    • Honesty is crucial to maintaining public trust in psychology.
    • Values include truthful communication and avoidance of exploitation.

  4. Professional and Scientific Responsibilities to Society

    • Psychologists must advance knowledge about human behavior and apply this to societal benefit.
    • Responsibilities include promoting ethical scientific conduct and developing training for professionals.

General Ethical Standards and Procedures

  • Key areas include resolving ethical conflicts, maintaining professional competence, respecting the rights of supervisees, ensuring confidentiality, maintaining truthful communication, and professional record keeping.

Specific Ethical Considerations

  • Resolving Ethical Issues: Includes managing misuse and conflicts of interest.
  • Competence: Only licensed professionals should provide psychological services.

Human Relations

  • Principles against unfair discrimination and harassment are emphasized. Psychologists must work to avoid harm and disclose conflicts of interest and multiple relationships.

Confidentiality and Privacy

  • Psychologists are obligated to protect client confidentiality and discuss any limitations or potential risks with their clients.

Research Ethics

  • Ethical standards in research include obtaining informed consent, respecting participants’ rights, and ensuring the humane treatment of any subjects, including animals.

Implementation and Compliance

  • Continuous discussion regarding ethical issues is encouraged, with a provision for members to suggest amendments to the Code as needed.

Reporting Violations

  • Psychologists must report ethical violations and can face sanctions if found in violation of the Code.