Ethical Measures & Road to

become a Clinical Psychologist

By: Himanshi Singh
(Clinical Psychologist)
 Ethics
• The English word ethics is derived from the Ancient
Greek word ēthikós meaning "relating to one's character", which itself
comes from the root word êthos meaning "character, moral nature”
• Standard definitions of ethics have typically included such phrases as
'the science of the ideal human character' or 'the science of moral duty
• Ethics are an important concern in the field of psychology,
particularly as it relates to therapy and research. Working with
patients and conducting psychological research can pose a wide
variety of ethical and moral issues that need to be addressed.
 APA ethics code

• The APA ethics code provides guidance for professionals working in the
field of psychology so that they're better equipped with the knowledge of
what to do when they encounter some type of moral or ethical dilemma.

• Some of these are principles or values that psychologists should aspire to

uphold.

• In other cases, the APA outlines standards that are enforceable

expectations.
• The APA code of ethics is composed of key principles and ethical
standards.

• The principles are intended as a guide to help inspire psychologists as they

work in their profession, whether they are working in mental health,
in research, or in business.

• The standards, on the other hand, are expectations of conduct that can lead
to professional and legal ramifications when violated.
 The Five Ethical Principles

Principle A: Beneficence and Non-maleficence

• The first principle of the APA ethics code states that psychologists should
strive to protect the rights and welfare of those with whom they work
professionally.

• This includes the clients they see in clinical practice, animals that are
involved in research and experiments, and anyone else with whom they
engage in professional interaction.
• This principle encourages psychologists to strive to
eliminate biases, affiliations, and prejudices that might influence
their work. This includes acting independently in research and
not allowing affiliations or sponsorships to influence results.
Principle B: Fidelity and Responsibility

• The APA also suggests that psychologists have a moral

responsibility to help ensure that others working in their
profession also uphold high ethical standards.
• This principle suggests that psychologists should participate in
activities that enhance the ethical compliance and conduct of
their colleagues.
• Serving as a mentor, taking part in peer-review, and pointing out
ethical concerns or misconduct are examples of how this
principle might be put into action.
 Principle C: Integrity

• In research and practice, psychologists should never attempt to deceive or

misrepresent.
• In research, deception can involve fabricating or manipulating results in
some way to achieve desired outcomes. Psychologists should also strive
for transparency and honesty in their practice.
• When deception is used in research (which may involve the use of
confederates or not fully revealing the true nature of the research),
psychologists must make efforts to mitigate the effects.
• This type of research deception must be justified and the possible gains
must outweigh potential drawbacks. The use of deception should be
minimal, not result in distress, and be disclosed at the earliest possible
opportunity.
 Principle D: Justice

• In its broadest sense, justice relates to a responsibility to be fair and

impartial.

• This principle states that people have a right to access and benefit from
advances that have been made in the field of psychology. It is important
for psychologists to treat people equally.

• Psychologists should also always practice within their area of expertise

and also be aware of their level of competence and limitations.
Principle E: Respect for People's Rights and Dignity

• Psychologists should respect the right to dignity, privacy, and

confidentiality of those they work with professionally.

• They should also strive to minimize their own biases as well as be

aware of issues related to diversity and the concerns of particular
populations.

• For example, people may have specific concerns related to their age,
socioeconomic status, race, gender, religion, ethnicity, or disability.
 Ethical Standards

• The 10 standards found in the APA ethics code are enforceable rules of
conduct for psychologists working in clinical practice and academia.

• These standards tend to be broad in order to help guide the behavior of

psychologists across a wide variety of domains and situations.

• They apply to areas such as education, therapy, advertising, privacy,

research, and publication.
1. Resolving Ethical Issues
2. Competence
3. Human Relations
4. Privacy and Confidentiality
5. Advertising and Other Public Statements
6. Record Keeping and Fees
7. Education and Training
8. Research and Publication
9. Assessment
10. Assessment
Road to become a Clinical Psychologist

• Academic Qualification
• Qualities
• Rapport
Thank you