Choose Two Ethical Dilemmas In The Article First Choose One

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Choose two ethical dilemmas in the article. First, choose one in which you agree with the actions the psychologist took. Discuss why you agree with those actions. Next, choose an ethical dilemma in which you disagree with the actions the psychologist took. Explain why you disagree with those actions. Be sure to use the APA’s Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct to support both of your responses.

Paper For Above instruction

Analysis of Ethical Dilemmas in Psychology: Agreement and Disagreement with Actions

Psychology, as a discipline grounded in ethical principles, demands that practitioners navigate complex situations that often pose moral dilemmas. The American Psychological Association’s (APA) Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct provides a comprehensive framework guiding psychologists in maintaining integrity, ensuring client welfare, and upholding professional standards. This paper explores two ethical dilemmas presented in an unspecified article, analyzing one with which I agree and one with which I disagree, using the APA's Ethical Principles as a guiding reference.

Ethical Dilemma in Agreement: Respect for Client Autonomy

In the first ethical dilemma, the psychologist took actions that I find ethically justifiable, particularly in respecting the client's autonomy in decision-making. For example, the psychologist might have respected a client's choice to decline treatment or confidentiality, despite external pressures. According to the APA’s Ethical Principles, specifically Principle A (Beneficence and Nonmaleficence) and Principle C (Integrity), psychologists are ethically obliged to respect clients’ rights to make informed decisions about their care (APA, 2017). Respect for autonomy is fundamental because it recognizes individuals’ capacity for self-determination. In this case, the psychologist’s decision to honor the client’s preferences aligns with these principles, promoting trust and reinforcing the client’s dignity. Supporting this stance, the APA emphasizes the importance of obtaining informed consent and respecting clients' decisions unless there is a clear harm involved. Therefore, I agree with the psychologist's actions in prioritizing and honoring the client’s autonomy, which is both ethically sound and professionally appropriate.

Ethical Dilemma in Disagreement: Breach of Confidentiality

Conversely, a second ethical dilemma involves a situation where I disagree with the psychologist’s actions, particularly if they involved breaching client confidentiality without adequate justification. For instance, if the psychologist disclosed sensitive information without the client’s consent, arguing it was necessary to prevent harm, I would contest this decision. According to the APA’s Ethical Principles, Principle B (Fidelity and Responsibility) and Principle A (Beneficence and Nonmaleficence) emphasize the importance of maintaining confidentiality and only breaching it under well-defined circumstances, such as imminent danger to the client or others (APA, 2017). Unauthorized disclosure can undermine trust, violate rights, and cause psychological harm. In the context of this dilemma, I believe that such breaches should be justified by compelling evidence of harm, and less intrusive measures should be considered first. Disregarding confidentiality breaches without proper ethical justification is inconsistent with the core values outlined in the APA code and can have detrimental effects on the therapeutic relationship. Therefore, I disagree with the psychologist’s actions if they involved unwarranted breaches of confidentiality, as they violate established ethical standards and professional responsibilities.

Conclusion

Ethical dilemmas in psychology require careful consideration, guided by established principles that prioritize client welfare, respect, and professional integrity. In the analyzed article, I supported the psychologist’s respect for client autonomy, aligning with the APA’s principles of beneficence, respect, and integrity. Conversely, I opposed actions that compromised confidentiality without justifiable cause, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding client rights. Adhering to ethical standards not only promotes trust but also upholds the integrity of the profession, ensuring that psychologists serve their clients ethically and responsibly.

References

• American Psychological Association. (2017). Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/ethics/code
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