Multiple relationships: does the new ethics code answer the right questions?
The new "Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct" (American Psychological Association, 1992) presented expanded attempts to clarify the ethical issues regarding multiple relationships and to provide useful guidance for psychologists. This article proposes that the new code fails to address adequately two basic questions necessary to provide psychologists with clear guidance: (a) What are multiple relationships? and (b) When do multiple relationships constitute unethical conduct? The article offers a definition of multiple relationships and identifies several dynamics operating within a professional relationship that are likely to be adversely affected by the imposition of a secondary relationship. Unethical multiple relationships are defined. Finally, the article suggests additions to the new code that would enhance its utility for psychologists.
Department of Psychiatry, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, P.O. Box 1007, Loma Linda, California 92354, USA.
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D032781:Codes of Ethics; D016265:Conflict of Interest; D004995:Ethics, Professional; D005178:Faculty; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D011209:Power, Psychological; D028743:Professional Misconduct; D024382:Professional Role; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D011584:Psychology / Q000592:standards*; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000592:standards; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000523:psychology; D013334:Students
American Psychological Association; Bioethics and Professional Ethics