Copy of PAP CODE OF ETHICS FOR PSYCHOLOGISTS AND PSYCHOMETRICIANS 2022

CODE OF ETHICS FOR PHILIPPINE PSYCHOLOGISTS AND PSYCHOMETRICIANS

Preface

  • Historical Context: The Code of Ethics for Clinical Psychologists was initially adopted by the Psychological Association of the Philippines (PAP) in the 1980s and remained unchanged until 2007.

  • Revision Process: In 2007, the PAP Board established a committee to revisit and update the Code to ensure inclusivity. Dr. Allan B. I. Bernardo was appointed as Chair, with members including Dr. Ma. Lourdes A. Carandang, Dr. Natividad A. Dayan, Dr. Rosalito De Guzman, and Ms. Anna Guerrero.

  • Committee Work: The committee reviewed previous codes and ethical standards, finalized the draft in a workshop in 2009, and presented it to the PAP Board in April 2009. It was ratified in July 2009.

  • Continuous Improvement: The PAP encourages ongoing discussions and suggestions for amendments to the Code, inviting members to submit proposals for consideration.

  • Reporting Violations: Individuals are encouraged to report violations of the Code to the PAP Committee on Ethics and Professional Standards, ensuring confidentiality and appropriate investigation procedures.

  • Recent Revisions: In 2020, a committee began revising the Code to reflect technological advancements and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The final version was approved in August 2022.

Declaration of Principles

Overview

  • Ethics in Psychology: Ethics forms the foundation for psychological practice, with the Universal Declaration serving as a moral framework for psychologists worldwide.

  • Social Context: Psychologists recognize the interconnectedness of individuals within their cultural and social environments and strive to prioritize societal welfare over personal gains.

Objectives of the Universal Declaration

  1. Evaluate ethical relevance in psychology organizations.

  2. Serve as a template for developing ethical codes.

  3. Encourage global ethical thinking while respecting local values.

  4. Provide a collective voice on ethical matters.

Principles and Values

  • The principles articulated emphasize shared human values and ethical ideals relevant across cultures, requiring local adaptation.

Principle I: Respect for the Dignity of Persons and Peoples

  • This principle establishes the inherent worth of all individuals, emphasizing equal moral consideration irrespective of differences.

  • Key Related Values:

    • Respect for unique worth and inherent dignity.

    • Acknowledgment of diversity among individuals and cultures.

    • Consent, privacy, confidentiality, fairness, and respect for the environment.

Principle II: Competent Caring for the Well-Being of Persons and Peoples

  • Focuses on the commitment to do no harm while maximizing benefits through competent practice.

  • Key Related Values:

    • Active concern for well-being.

    • Competent service delivery, including telepsychology.

    • Self-awareness regarding personal influences on practice.

Principle III: Integrity

  • Integrity is linked to honesty and responsible communication in psychology.

  • Key Related Values:

    • Open and accurate communication.

    • Avoidance of exploitation for personal gain.

    • Management of conflicts of interest.

Principle IV: Professional and Scientific Responsibilities to Society

  • Psychologists have a dual responsibility to contribute positively to society and uphold ethical standards in their professional roles.

  • Key Related Values:

    • Promotion of scientific knowledge for societal benefit.

    • Ethical conduct aligned with the community's needs and values.

General Ethical Standards and Procedures

  • Establishes guidelines for ethical decision-making, professional competence, respect for rights, confidentiality, truthfulness, and professionalism in all aspects of psychology practice.

Resolving Ethical Issues

  • Guidelines for addressing violations of the Code, including handling misuse of work, legal conflicts, and ensuring confidentiality in ethical complaint processes.

  • Encourages informal resolution and cooperation with ethics committees.

Competencies

  • Licensing regulations stipulate that only registered psychologists can practice psychology, and practitioners must operate within their expertise and seek continuous professional development (CPD).

Human Relations

  • Prohibitions against discrimination, harassment, and harm to clients.

  • Maintain professional relationships devoid of sexual intimacies and conflicts of interest.

Confidentiality

  • Upholding confidentiality is fundamental in all interactions; limitations must be openly discussed, and consent obtained for recordings.

Records and Fees

  • Maintaining accurate records is essential for service continuity and compliance with ethical standards. Agreements regarding fees and financial arrangements should be clear from the outset.

Assessment

  • Ethical standards for psychological evaluation, including informed consent, methodological rigor, and responsibility for assessment outcomes.

Therapy

  • Maintaining confidentiality and informed consent are paramount; therapists must monitor their personal fitness to provide care and avoid dual relationships.

Education and Training

  • Training programs must adhere to ethical standards, ensuring thorough descriptions and assessment of performance, with no coercive therapy requirements.

Research

  • Strict adherence to ethical considerations involving informed consent, rights protection, and accuracy in reporting findings. Emphasis on the humane treatment of research subjects, including animals, and environmental responsibility.

Conclusion

  • The Code serves as a comprehensive guide for psychological practice in the Philippines, emphasizing ethical adherence, respect, and the welfare of both clients and society.