New technology, old issues: Demonstrating the relevance of the Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists to the ever-sharper cutting edge of technology.

New technology brings with it new opportunities for the practice of our profession. However, this technology is also a double-edged sword in that it can also cause problems for our profession and those we serve. The Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists (3rd edition) provides a foundation for approaching the issues that can arise in its use. It is argued that psychologists need not wait for specific rules and guidelines regarding the ethical use of new technologies; rather, psychologists can utilize the Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists immediately to address many of the issues involved. There is a wide range of areas in which ethical issues can arise. The focus in this paper is on three specific examples (online personal information accessibility, web-based advertising, and electronic data storage). These examples illustrate both the ethical issues involved and demonstrate the potential for how the Code can be used to think through and manage or resolve the issues. After a discussion of the three examples, the ongoing relevance of the Code to meeting the ethical challenges of continuously evolving technologies is discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved)     

Being fit: The ethics of practice diversification in performance psychology.

The ethics of practice diversification in the field generically described as performance psychology--including sport psychology, organizational consulting, and performing arts psychology--is examined. Since the field is in the process of development and psychologists come to this type of practice from a variety of paths, ethical issues in this type of practice bear particularly careful attention. This article reviews the primary ethical issues involved, including preparation for diversified practice; competence; interpersonal and relational issues; and presentation to the public. Currently emerging concerns are also discussed. The article concludes with specific suggestions for the practitioner interested in this field. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

A guide for establishing a practice in police preemployment postoffer psychological evaluations.

This article provides a guide that focuses on ethics and competence issues for psychologists considering a specialization in conducting police preemployment postoffer psychological evaluations (PEPOPEs). The discussion first addresses the importance of relevant training and practical experiences, involvement in pertinent professional associations, and adherence to rigorous standards and guidelines for conducting this specialized form of assessment. The specific components of a comprehensive assessment are then enumerated and discussed. The article concludes with a consideration of ethical dilemmas and challenges involved in this realm of psychological practice, and a vignette highlights some possible pitfalls for psychologists who are insufficiently prepared for conducting PEPOPEs. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved)     

Focus on ethics April 2010 correction.

Reports an error in "Ethical dilemmas in sport psychology: A dialogue on the unique aspects impacting practice" by Amy B. Stapleton, Douglas M. Hankes, Kate F. Hays and William D. Parham (Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 2010[Apr], Vol 41[2], 143-152). Due to a production error, the name of Amy B. Stapleton was substituted for the name of Jeffrey E. Barnett as the editor. (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record 2010-06890-009.) The multidisciplinary field of applied sport psychology, a specialty area of psychology practice, has been acknowledged as a proficiency area by the American Psychological Association (APA, 2007). This unique discipline often requires the psychologist to work outside the realm of traditional practice. In doing so, sport psychologists frequently encounter unique ethical dilemmas. In an effort to promote awareness and dialogue, this article describes some of the more commonly faced ethical considerations in applied sport psychology. Issues related to developing and maintaining competence in the field, confidentiality, and boundary issues are discussed, and case examples are provided to illustrate the relevant ethical consideration. Subsequently, three applied sport psychology experts respond to the lead article’s discussion and offer poignant reflections on ethical issues presented. In addition, suggestions for successfully resolving ethical dilemmas related to competence, confidentiality, and boundary issues in sport psychology are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Ethical dilemmas in sport psychology: A dialogue on the unique aspects impacting practice.

[Correction Notice: An erratum for this article was reported in Vol 41(3) of Professional Psychology: Research and Practice (see record 2010-11935-001). Due to a production error, the name of Amy B. Stapleton was substituted for the name of Jeffrey E. Barnett as the editor of the Focus on Ethics section in the April issue of Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 41, 2, 143–152.] The multidisciplinary field of applied sport psychology, a specialty area of psychology practice, has been acknowledged as a proficiency area by the American Psychological Association (APA, 2007). This unique discipline often requires the psychologist to work outside the realm of traditional practice. In doing so, sport psychologists frequently encounter unique ethical dilemmas. In an effort to promote awareness and dialogue, this article describes some of the more commonly faced ethical considerations in applied sport psychology. Issues related to developing and maintaining competence in the field, confidentiality, and boundary issues are discussed, and case examples are provided to illustrate the relevant ethical consideration. Subsequently, three applied sport psychology experts respond to the lead article’s discussion and offer poignant reflections on ethical issues presented. In addition, suggestions for successfully resolving ethical dilemmas related to competence, confidentiality, and boundary issues in sport psychology are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Applied sport psychology in professional sports: The team psychologist.

Professional sports has become a significant worldwide business in which highly paid athletes are considered substantial assets to be carefully selected, developed, and protected. Psychologists have become increasingly involved with professional sport organizations, providing a wide range of psychological services, such as performance enhancement consultation, clinical or counseling interventions, and psychological testing. As increasing numbers of psychologists enter the sport domain, the specific roles and responsibilities of practice, unique ethical considerations, and psychological services and professional demands most often placed upon the team psychologist in professional sports must be clarified and articulated. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Challenges and benefits of ethical small-community practice.

Ethical dilemmas and boundary challenges are parts of daily life for psychologists who live and practice within small communities. Although rural psychologists are most readily identified as “small-community psychologists,” there are a number of other settings that can be considered small communities—colleges, communities of color/ethnicity/culture, lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender (LGBT), military, faith-based, feminist, criminal justice and corrections, suburban, disability, deaf/hearing impaired, chemical dependency, school districts, sport psychology, graduate training programs, and therapists who see other therapists as clients. Psychologists in these small communities strive to balance a traditional individualist perspective with a need to participate in and contribute to the overall wellness of the community in which they live and work. The 3 invited commentaries provide additional depth through their perspectives on rural, LGBT, and Latina/o community practice. Their insights model thoughtful and contemporary practice that challenges, enriches, and educates the larger field of ethical psychological practice. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Ten strategies for psychology trainees and practicing psychologists interested in avoiding ethical and legal perils.

Litigation against psychologists has increased in recent years, resulting in high malpractice premiums, negative publicity, and defensive approaches to professional practice. While many practicing psychologists have become keenly aware of the need to be up-to-date on legal and ethical issues in professional practice, it is unclear if this attention has filtered down to the training of graduate students, interns, and postdoctoral trainees. While trainees are generally fairly well versed in the Ethics Code (APA, 1992) they tend to have little practical understanding of strategies to minimize both ethical and legal troubles. The purpose of this article is to outline 10 practical strategies to minimize the chances of ethical and legal problems for both psychology trainees and practicing psychologists. While this is not an exhaustive list, it highlights some of the major issues trainees and psychologists should be aware of and offers direction for minimizing potential problems. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Putting sport psychology into (your) practice.

The psychologist interested in expanding or diversifying practice will find the relatively new field of applied sport psychology rich in opportunities for learning, collaboration, and development. Exercise can be an important adjunct to psychotherapy, and psychological skills training offers systematic methods for performance improvement. Sport psychology is derived from a blending of sport science and psychology, and practitioner psychologists bring unique skills to this domain. Building on already developed areas of expertise, the psychologist can apply new skills to different populations in diverse settings. At the same time, the practitioner with an interest in sport psychology should obtain sufficient training, consider credentialing, and recognize ethical issues particular to this field. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Psychologists' ethical responsibilities in the Internet-based groups: Issues, strategies, and a call for dialogue.

How can psychologists participate ethically as facilitators, advisers, and peer members in Internet-based groups? The astonishing growth of Internet technology and on-line groups has outpaced the development of formal ethical guidelines for psychologists involved in on-line groups. This article provides an initial appraisal of psychologists' ethical responsibilities in discussion, support, and self-help groups that operate on the Internet and offers practical strategies for avoiding ethical problems. By presenting initial strategies and guidelines for ethical behavior in Internet-based groups, the authors hope to stimulate the field to further discuss and analyze these issues. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Legal and ethical issues in billing patients and collecting fees.

Reviews the legal and ethical issues in billing patients, filing insurance claims, and collecting fees by psychologists. It is hoped that the likelihood of patients, insurance companies, and psychologists having disputes over fees and reimbursements is reduced. Guidelines are provided on how psychologists should proceed when financial disputes arise. These guidelines include using risk management techniques such as carefully screening the patients accepted into practice, clarifying financial arrangements in advance, understanding the parameters of what can and cannot be billed, and acting promptly when patients incur debts. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Boundary issues and multiple relationships: Fantasy and reality.

Psychologists regularly struggle with boundary issues and multiple relationships. Knowing which boundary crossings are acceptable, when a behavior becomes a boundary violation, and which multiple relationships are acceptable and which are not can present great challenges for practicing psychologists. Furthermore, for those who work with diverse populations, these challenges may become even more pronounced. A rational approach to addressing boundaries and multiple relationships is presented along with 4 expert commentaries that further elucidate these issues. Special attention is paid to the role of culture and other diversity factors as they affect how psychologists address boundaries and multiple relationships. Recommendations for ethical and effective practice that incorporate rational decision making and attention to individual differences are made. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Sport psychology service delivery: Staying ethical while keeping loose.

Although the parent discipline of sport psychology is psychology, the delivery of sport psychology services has its main roots in physical education and sports science (motor learning and control, skill acquisition). Thus, sport psychologists may look more like coaches than they look like clinicians or counselors. In this article, the authors trace the evolution of sport psychology services and contrast the temporal, spatial, and delivery issues of applied sport psychology with more mainstream counseling and clinical psychology. The looser boundaries of sport psychologist practice have both benefits and dangers, and the authors offer some examples to professional psychologists who are thinking of expanding their delivery of service to athletes and coaches. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Ethical issues in elder abuse reporting: A professional psychologist's guide.

Elder abuse is a concerning issue for professional psychologists, who have legal and ethical obligations to report it. While dramatic cases of abuse are easy to identify, psychologists may struggle with how to respond to more subtle cases of potential abuse. General legal standards for elder abuse reporting are provided, along with ethical guidelines from the APA Ethics Code. Important considerations are discussed in tandem with three fictional vignettes illustrating examples of suspected elder abuse that professional psychologists may more commonly confront in practice. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved)     

The role of positive ethics and virtues in the context of sport and performance psychology service delivery.

Ethical principles developed for clinical/counseling psychologists are a useful, but incomplete, guide for sport and performance psychology (SPP) practitioners. Positive and virtue ethics are introduced to the SPP ethical literature as an additional resource. Positive ethics focus on practitioners' reaching their fullest potential rather than avoiding risk (Knapp & VanDeCreek, 2006). Virtue ethics emphasize the character of the professional rather than situational variables (Newman, Robinson-Kurpius, & Fuqua, 2002). The context in which SPP practice occurs is described and commonly resulting ethical dilemmas are identified. The aspects of SPP context explored are: the domain of performance, SPP settings, SPP interventions, and expectations. The ethical issues discussed are: multiple relationships (including boundaries and dual agency), confidentiality, and self-regulation. Drawing from positive and virtue ethics as well as small community and military psychology, advice for managing the issues is provided. The inclusion of character and fitness requirements in training programs is explored to address the self-governance necessitated by the professional isolation of SPP practitioners. Suggestions for future professional practice and research are offered. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Factors associated with acceptance and decline of client gift giving.

Client gift giving is an interesting interpersonal event, and scholars have considered the ethical and clinical complexities involved in receiving gifts from clients. Attention to the cultural relations of client gift giving invites a more nuanced discussion of psychologists' decisions to accept or decline client gifts. In recognition of how cultural issues affect the therapeutic relationship, the American Psychological Association has instituted guidelines regarding multicultural competence and has urged psychologists to practice in a culture-centered manner. This article reviews the ethical decision making of 40 licensed psychologists to accept or decline gifts from clients. Results indicated that psychologists were more likely to accept gifts from clients when the gift was inexpensive, informed by cultural context, and presented with gratitude for good work at the end of psychotherapy treatment. Psychologists were more likely to decline gifts that were expensive, were presented during treatment rather than at the end of treatment, and had sentimental or coercive value. Two psychologists indicated they would not accept client gifts because they perceived gift acceptance to be a violation of their code of ethics. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

The ethical practice of psychology in a managed-care framework.

With the rise of managed healthcare, psychologists face new challenges to their professional ethics. This article examines the dilemmas posed by managed care in 3 areas: client care, the handling of patient data, and issues surrounding membership in a managed-healthcare organization. Case examples of ethical dilemmas and strategies for dealing with these challenges are presented. In an attempt to summarize the strategies used to cope with the ethical dilemmas presented in the case examples, global solutions for the ethical practice of psychology in a managed-care framework are also reviewed. These strategies include understanding managed-care policies, clear communication with the client, additional training, increased advocacy by clinicians, and ultimately, psychologists' involvement in the formation of these organizations. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Ethical dilemmas and U.S. Air Force clinical psychologists: A survey.

Although psychologists work in widely varying settings, all encounter ethical dilemmas. Those who are also officers in the U.S. Air Force have the double burden of upholding the ethics code of psychologists while also supporting the mission of the Air Force. Does this create unique ethical dilemmas? To address this issue, the authors sent active-duty Air Force psychologists a questionnaire asking them to describe recent ethical conflicts. These conflicts are discussed as they relate to the "Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct" (American Psychological Association, 1992) and in comparison with civilian practice. Results suggest a broad range of concerns but center on those related to perceived conflicts between the Air Force mission and the ethical demands of psychologists. Recommendations for dealing with ethical conflicts at the organizational level are offered. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Ethics and multiculturalism: Advancing cultural and clinical responsiveness.

The provision of ethical and responsive treatment to clients of diverse cultural backgrounds is expected of all practicing psychologists. While this is mandated by the American Psychological Association’s ethics code and is widely agreed upon as a laudable goal, achieving this mandate is often more challenging than it may seem. Integrating culturally responsive practices with more traditional models of psychotherapy into every practitioner’s repertoire is of paramount importance when considering the rapidly diversifying population we serve. Psychologists are challenged to reconsider their conceptualizations of culture and of culturally responsive practice, to grapple with inherent conflicts in traditional training models that may promote treatments that are not culturally responsive, and to consider the ethical implications of their current practices. Invited expert commentaries address how conflicts may arise between efforts to meet ethical standards and being culturally responsive, how the application of outdated theoretical constructs may result in harm to diverse clients, and how we must develop more culturally responsive views of client needs, of boundaries and multiple relationships, and of treatment interventions. This article provides additional considerations for practicing psychologists as they attempt to navigate dimensions of culture and culturally responsive practice in psychology, while negotiating the ethical challenges presented in practice. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Clarifying confidentiality with the ethical practice model.

Replies to comments (see record 2008-14338-012) on the author's original article Protecting confidentiality rights: The need for an ethical practice model (see record 2007-19520-001). The important issues raised by Pipes, Blevens, and Kluck illustrate the complications that can arise in discussing confidentiality and making decisions about it: First, they noted that the term client consent is used by psychologists to mean two quite different things about confidentiality: (a) acknowledgement of its limits and (b) consent to disclose specific information. Second, Pipes et al made several comments about laws, one of which referred to Behnke's (2004) "doors" model. Third, Pipes et al elicited my personal thoughts about the current APA Ethics Code (APA, 2002). Finally, Pipes et al expect the ethical practice model to be used in psychology training programs. The current author hopes it will provide the next generation of psychologists with a clear ethical framework for considering confidentiality issues. Meanwhile, as in this exchange, it can facilitate conversation among colleagues not only about ethical and legal questions but also about cultural issues, personal values, and professional standards that affect our approach to confidentiality. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)