Ethical problems and dilemmas
Introduction
In the course of their duty, psychologists always encounter ethical challenges and problems. This essay is a critical analysis of two case studies (ethical dilemmas) and the actions that the psychologists in question took in response to the situations in light of the APA’s Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct (Walsh, 2015).
Confidentiality challenges
In the article Pope & Vetter (1992), an ethical dilemma is presented in the case of a psychologist who (because of confidentiality) chooses not to report a client (another psychologist) who confesses to having committed an ethical violation. In the provisions of the APA’s principles on confidentiality, I strongly agree with the decision and action of the psychologist not to report the confession.
The psychologist was right in abiding by the Code of Ethics, which advocates for client information confidentiality. According to this set of principles, a therapist is not supposed to disclose client information or report to the authorities unless the client is a danger to himself or to others (which is not the case in this situation).
Sexual issues
In the second dilemma, Pope and Vetter’s (1992) article presents the case of a psychology student who engages in a sexual relationship with their client after terminating the therapy at the end of the semester. I disagree with the course of action of the psychologist student as the behavior is contrary to the APA’S Code of Conduct.
According to the APA principles, a psychologist (whether in education or practice) should not engage in sexual relationships with their client for at least two years following the termination or cessation of therapy. (“Ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct”, 2020) Besides, they should never get into intimate relationships with clients even after two years unless in the rarest state of affairs.
Conclusion
In summary, psychologists face ethical problems that require sound decisions and actions. They are hence guided by the APA Ethical Code, which is a set of aspirational principles and standards in their education, research, and practice. However, some of the situations are so complex to the extent of pushing for amendments to APA’S Code of Ethics.