Ethics
"RPm Beshy! Ethics ang compass natin. Sa practice, hindi lang knowledge ang kailangan, dapat may INTEGRITY din. Know the Code of Ethics by heart - para protected ka at ang client mo!"
1. Key Ethical Principles (R-I-B-J) โ๏ธ
Ang foundation ng Code of Ethics natin. Memorize mo 'to!
Respect for Dignity
Value every person regardless of background. Informed consent, privacy, confidentiality.
Integrity
Honesty, accuracy, fairness. Avoid fraud, deception, and dual relationships.
Beneficence & Non-maleficence
"Do Good, Do No Harm." Maximize benefits, minimize risks to clients.
Justice
Fairness and equality. All clients have equal access to benefits of psychology.
2. Confidentiality & Privacy ๐
Trust is everything! Pero may exceptions kung kailan PWEDE i-break ang confidentiality.
When to BREAK Confidentiality:
- Imminent Danger: Client threatens to harm self (suicide) or others (homicide).
- Abuse: Suspected child abuse, elder abuse, or dependent adult abuse (Mandated Reporter!).
- Court Order: Subpoena issued by a judge.
- Consent: Client gives written permission to share info.
Duty to Warn (Tarasoff Rule):
If a client makes a specific threat against an identifiable victim, you must warn the victim and police.
3. Multiple Relationships ๐ฅ
Pwede ba maging friend ang client? NO! Avoid dual relationships that impair judgment or exploit the client.
Examples of Dual Relationships:
- Counseling your friend/relative
- Business partnership with client
- Teacher AND therapist to a student
- Romantic relationship (Absolute NO!)
Sexual Intimacy:
- NEVER with current clients.
- Wait at least 2 years after termination (APA), but generally discouraged forever.
- Exploitative relationships are always unethical.
4. Informed Consent ๐
Clients have the right to know what they are getting into BEFORE starting.
What to Include in Consent Form:
- Nature of therapy/assessment
- Fees and billing
- Limits of confidentiality
- Therapist qualifications
- Right to withdraw anytime
5. Assessment Ethics ๐งช
As psychometricians, ito ang bread and butter natin. Handle tests with care!
| Principle | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Test Security | Don't leak test items! Protect integrity of the test. |
| Obsolete Tests | Don't use outdated tests for current decisions. |
| Release of Data | Release only to qualified persons. Don't give raw data to untrained. |
| Competence | Use only tests you are trained/certified to administer. |
6. RA 10029 (Psychology Act of 2009) ๐ต๐ญ
The law that regulates our profession in the Philippines.
Key Provisions:
- Created the PRB of Psychology: Under PRC to regulate practice.
- Licensure Exam (BLEPP): Required for Psychometricians and Psychologists.
- Scope of Practice: Defines what RPm and RPsy can do.
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Required for license renewal.
7. Practice Questions ๐ง
Practice Ethics Questions
Q1: A client reveals he plans to kill his ex-girlfriend tonight. What must you do?
Answer: Break confidentiality! Warn the victim and contact police (Duty to Warn). Safety > Privacy.
Q2: Your cousin asks you to administer an IQ test to her son. Should you do it?
Answer: NO. This is a dual relationship. Your objectivity is compromised because they are family.
Q3: A school principal asks for the specific test answers of a student. Do you give it?
Answer: NO. Protect test security. You can give an interpretation/report, but NOT the raw test data/items.
Test Your Knowledge! ๐ง
Ready ka na ba? Take the practice quiz for Ethics to reinforce what you just learned.
Start Practice Quiz ๐