Question

Ethical psychological practice is increasingly important in today's world. Select one of the following ethical dilemmas in research or practice and explain what you think would be the best solution. •A researcher has had their research approved by the Institutional Review Board to use monkeys in her experiment. She discovers there are only 20 monkeys when more are needed, and one of her colleagues suggests they use rats instead. What should be done? •A clinical psychologist starts to have feelings for one of his female patients. What is the most ethical standard in this situation? •A counseling psychologist is meeting with a patient, who shares that he has committed a crime. What are the legal and ethical considerations of this situation? •A researcher has been allowed to use deception in her study, but realizes at the end that she forgot to debrief one of the groups who took part in the study. What should be done?

Answer 1

A counseling psychologist is meeting with a patient, who shares that he has committed a crime. What are the legal and ethical considerations of this situation?

The solution for this ethical dilemma are given in the following points.

• The psychologist needs to aware of their emotional reactions to the disclosure of the violent act and be aware to maintain their safety without being prejudiced, negative and judgemental towards the client.
• The psychologist should encourage the client to disclose their act together and the concerned authorities.
• The psychologist need to seek the support of peers and supervisors if they are unsure how to proceed.
• The psychologist must fully evaluate the situation and consider all the best possible alternative course of action.
• The psychologist must fully document all the process of decision making.