Ethics in Psychology and Cultural Competence

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of ethical guidelines such as the Nuremberg Code?

To establish a framework for scientific research.

To facilitate experimental procedures for researchers.

To protect the rights and welfare of human subjects. (correct)

To promote international collaboration in scientific studies.

Which experiment is commonly cited as a historical example of unethical research practices?

The Bobo doll experiment

The Milgram experiment on obedience

The Tuskegee syphilis study (correct)

The Stanford prison experiment

What role does ethical training play in psychology?

It provides psychologists with the tools to avoid legal issues.

It helps psychologists to perform therapies without supervision.

It focuses exclusively on the medical aspects of psychological care.

It ensures psychologists understand and apply ethical standards in practice. (correct)

What was the main critique of early unethical experiments conducted in psychology?

They did not obtain informed consent from participants. Signup and view all the answers

How has the ethical landscape in psychology evolved since the introduction of formal ethical codes?

There is now greater accountability for ethical breaches. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the ethical principles highlighted in the Belmont Report?

Beneficence Signup and view all the answers

Which unethical practice was associated with the study at the Allan Memorial Institute?

Withholding treatment to study disease progression Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant focus of the Central Intelligence Agency's research from 1953 to 1963?

Understanding brainwashing and interrogation techniques Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of establishing Institutional Review Boards in the United States?

To oversee research and prevent ethical violations Signup and view all the answers

What led to a stronger belief in the necessity of ethical codes during the 1961 to 1980 period?

Documented experiences of unethical studies and whistleblower retaliation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following events highlighted the need for ethical oversight in research?

Studies involving LSD conducted by the CIA Signup and view all the answers

During which years did significant ethical challenges in psychology become more apparent?

1961 - 1980 Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of laws designed to protect whistleblowers in the context of unethical research?

To shield individuals from retaliation when reporting unethical practices Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the three ethical principles outlined in the Belmont Report?

Integrity Signup and view all the answers

What was a consequence faced by individuals who reported unethical studies during the 1961 to 1980 period?

They faced punishment for their actions Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cultural Competence in Psychology

There is an urgent need to enhance cultural competence within the psychology community, encompassing researchers, practitioners, educators, and administrators.
The growing multicultural dynamics in society and increased international collaboration in psychology necessitate this shift toward ethics.

Various enduring and emerging social justice issues require a proactive role from the psychology discipline to help mitigate these challenges globally.

Ethics Education and Training

Enhanced ethics education and training is essential; preparation must be emotional and cognitive to equip future psychologists for ethical decision-making amid various pressures.
Ongoing efforts are needed to integrate ethical training into all levels of psychology education and practice, signifying that this journey is a continuous process.

Historical Context of Ethics in Psychology

Over recent decades, modern psychology has made significant advancements in ethical practices, reflecting changes in societal expectations and norms.
Important shifts in ethical standards and guidelines have occurred since the 19th century, indicating an evolving understanding of professional responsibilities.

Resource and Structural Implementation

Effective implementation of ethical training in psychology requires adequate structures and resources to support students and professionals in developing ethical thinking and actions.

Ethical Decision-Making

Ethical decision-making in psychology may involve non-rational processes, highlighting the complexity of ethical considerations in professional practice.

References to Ethical Standards

Ethical standards set forth by the American Psychological Association (APA) have evolved over the years, including guidelines for research with human participants and educational standards, emphasizing the discipline's commitment to ethics.

Globalization and Ethics

The influence of globalization necessitates an adaptation in the application of ethical principles in psychological practices and interventions, reinforcing the importance of integrating indigenous ethical frameworks.

Ethical Concerns in Research Experiments

Many experiments led to intense suffering, permanent harm, or even death of participants, often without their consent.
A significant number of researchers in Canada reported inadequate ethics training, with only 9% having formal ethics courses.
Ethical principles, including the Hippocratic Oath's “do no harm,” were often ignored by physicians conducting such experiments.

Justifications for Unethical Practices

Physicians defended their actions during Nuremberg trials by claiming concentration camp victims were not patients, thus exempting them from ethical codes.
They asserted experiments contributed to knowledge and societal benefits, despite ethical violations, such as lack of informed consent and risk identification.

Influence of Significant Ethical Violations

Events like the Tuskegee syphilis study (1932-1972) highlighted severe ethical breaches, where participants were misled and untreated for syphilis.
The Belmont Report (1979) emerged to address these issues, encapsulating three core ethical principles: Respect for Persons, Beneficence, and Justice.

Institutional Reforms and Oversight

Formation of Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) in the U.S. and Research Ethics Boards (REBs) in Canada aimed to enhance oversight and protect research participants.
Laws supporting whistleblowers were established to encourage reporting of unethical research practices.

Rise of Ethical Documentation

From 1961 to 1980, an increase in ethical guidelines, documents, and codes illustrated the growing importance of ethics in psychology and research.
The period marked a significant shift towards more stringent ethical standards and accountability in the research community.

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Description

This quiz explores the essential ethical considerations in psychology, emphasizing the importance of cultural competence within the field. It addresses the roles of various stakeholders, including researchers and practitioners, in promoting social justice and addressing global issues. Test your knowledge on ethical practice and the historical context of psychology.