Ethics Awareness Inventory

Introduction

In the field of psychology, an Ethics Code was put into place by the American Psychological Association (APA) to serve as a guide to professional behavior for those who work in the field of psychology (Plante, 2011). This paper will address the importance of ethics in psychology, how ethics are applied, the effects of ethics on the field of psychology and the advantages of psychology as a career choice.

The Importance of Ethics

Ethics are crucial in the field of psychology in order to protect the profession and the public. First of all, the Ethics Code protects patients in several ways, such as confidentiality issues and respect for the patient, including prohibiting personal relationships and requiring psychologists to exhibit care and compassion (Plante, 2011). Ethics protect the profession in that the expectations for professional conduct specify what can and cannot be done within the field of psychology as it pertains to certain expectations and behaviors (Plante, 2011).

Application of Ethics

Ethics are applied within the field of psychology in several ways. First of all, a psychology professional must maintain competence in his or her area of specialization (Plante, 2011). Psychologists must also maintain a respectful demeanor and show professionalism and integrity in their dealings with others (Plante, 2011). Maintaining professional responsibility by attempting every avenue, such as consulting with other professionals, in order to assist their clients is crucial as well (Plante, 2011). However, a psychology professional must be cognizant of the client’s confidentiality and adhere to the ethics code as it pertains to such an issue (Plante, 2011).

Effects of Ethics

While the Ethics Code for psychology professionals is important and must be adhered to, there are situations where the psychology professional finds themselves in a situation in which they must choose between breaking the code and breaking the law. This conundrum is evident as it pertains to court cases that a psychologist is involved in. For example, a psychologist is called to complete a psychological evaluation for the courts. This psychologist is then called to testify as to the results of this evaluation, as well as his or her opinion regarding the accused and his or her state of mind. The Ethics Code states that the psychologist must maintain confidentiality unless consent is given by the client (Plante, 2011). However, if the client refuses consent and the judge orders that the psychologist answer, he or she has only two options. These include breaking the Ethics Code or breaking the law. The best thing to do in this situation for the psychology professional is to speak with the judge and explain his or her obligations as it pertains to the Ethics Code (Plante, 2011). If the judge continues to require that the psychologist answer, the psychologist then faces penalties either from the APA for breaking confidentiality, or contempt of court for breaking the law. Another scenario regarding the effects of ethics is a psychology professional that is called upon by the United States government. The U.S. government recently called upon psychologists to assist in interviewing detainees who were suspected of potential crimes against national security (Gravitz, 2009). In this scenario, psychologists were outraged by the tactics used by the government in “interviewing” these detainees and that these tactics were considered “torture” (Gravitz, 2009). Because of this consideration, psychologists have sought to request that the APA declare their members unsuitable for such interviews (Gravitz, 2009).

Advantages of a Degree in Psychology

The advantages of a degree in psychology are many. First of all, human behavior and workings of the mind are present in every situation in a person’s life from a child growing up, to an adult with problem relationships, to an elderly person who requires constant care. No matter what career path a person decides to take, a degree in psychology is helpful because all careers entail dealing with people, whether they are co-workers, customers, executives, or clients. In addition, the ethical standards required in the field of psychology are stringent and helpful in any career as well. While most companies may not have the exact regulations as the Ethics Codes, all companies require employees to maintain certain professionalism in the workplace.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ethics are important in all careers, especially in the field of psychology. These rules are in place in order to protect both the client and the psychology professional. Though there can be instances where the psychologist is placed in a situation where the Ethics Code prohibits certain behaviors that the law requires, continuing to work together with law enforcement and the government, the field of psychology will continue to make strides toward the acceptance of the Ethics Code and both can continue to protect and serve the public as they should.

References

Gravitz, M.A. (2009). Professional Ethics and National Security: Some Current Issues. Consulting Psychology Journal: Practice and Research, 2009, Vol. 61, No. 1, 33-42.

Plante, T.G. (2011). Contemporary clinical psychology (3rd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.