Essential Ethics for Psychologists

Many students and emerging psychologists struggle to understand the APA Ethics Code because they don't understand the bigger picture of ethics in psychology. How do psychologists identify and address ethical issues? What are the most important ethical concepts, and how do they apply to specific settings? This one-of-a-kind book acculturates the reader into ethical practice in psychology by enhancing critical thinking skills. Rather than explain each of the 80+ standards of the APA Ethics Code, the book examines the code's underlying principles.

The book begins with a basic introduction to the code, including a brief history and an overview of general concepts. Next, it explores in depth four ethical concepts applicable to all psychologists: competence; informed consent; privacy and confidentiality; avoiding harm and exploitation. Finally, it shows how these key concepts apply to specific psychologist roles, including assessment, treatment, research and publication, and teaching and supervision.

Numerous case studies show how ethical concepts are applied, and a supplemental web site provides discussion questions, a reading list, and extensive other materials to enhance the reader's learning. This book is essential reading for psychology students in high school, undergraduate school, and graduate school, as well as licensed psychologists who want to improve their ethical decision-making skills and reduce their liability in professional practice.