3300 - NEW AND UPDATED ETHICS STANDARDS OF THE REVISED APA ETHICS CODE

Session: 3298 - UNITED STATES AND INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVES ON THE UPCOMING AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION ETHICS CODE
AUTHORS:
Leach Mark (University of Louisville ~ Louisville, Kentucky ~ United States of America)
Abstract text:
The American Psychological Association's Ethics Code Task Force has been developing the next iteration of its ethics code. The current code was developed almost a quarter-century ago and the psychological landscape has changed significantly in that time. Because of these changes, its ethics code must be evaluated and updated to better reflect current thinking and practices. Standards of practice have changed, and the revision not only reflects these changes but also considers future developments. The code is structured differently but maintains important components needed to guide psychologists toward ethical work. It has also expanded its scope to more accurately reflect the vast work activities and settings in which psychologists are engaged. Included in this revision is new language and intent to existing standards but also the inclusion of new standards. These standards are incorporated into every category and include areas related to multiple relationships, technologies, public presentations and accountability, informed consent, confidentiality, interdisciplinary settings, international research, data sharing teaching and supervision, sexualized relationships, and third-party testing observations, among others. The new version attempts to delineate health and non-health service providers when appropriate. Overall, the Ethics Code Task Force, comprised of individuals representing a range of diverse backgrounds and professional expertise, is developing a code that has reconsidered each section of the current code, with an eye on current and future ethical behaviors.