The American Psychological Association (APA) was first established in 1892 as the governing board to study behavior
By 1947, the APA formed the first Ethical Committee to create a set of standards by which all psychological research must adhere to
* This is done when conducting any study at a university or college through the Institutional Review Boards (IRB) around the country to protect both human and animal subjects
In 2010, the most recent version of the ethical standards were released
Principle A: Beneficence and Non-maleficence
* Researchers must conduct studies with are beneficial to others and does not harm its subjects
Principle B: Fidelity and Responsibility
* Cultivate a positive atmosphere for the field of psychology and scientific environment built on trust, accountability, and ethical consideration
Principle C: Integrity
* Psychologists must engage in trusting and transparent practices within all aspects of psychology
* There is an exception… researchers can deceive subjects when conducing social psychological studies, as long as the deception is not putting the participant in any danger
Principle D: Justice
* Psychologists must prevent unjust practices by remaining aware of their biases, level of competence, and area of limits and expertise
Principle E: Respect for People’s Rights and Dignity
* Subjects are informed consent and their right to privacy is maintained
In 2002, ethical codes were mandated to protect animals in a humane way
* Researchers must acquire, care for, use, and dispose of animals in accordance with federal, state, and local laws