Assessment Reviewer
Assessment Reviewer
1. Preface
• Background:
o The original code of ethics for Philippine psychologists was adopted in the
1980s. The need for a revised and more inclusive version became evident in
2007.
o Revision process began in 2008, incorporating elements from other
international ethical codes (e.g., APA, BPS) while ensuring relevance to the
Philippine context.
o In 2020, the code was further revised to reflect modern technological
developments and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychology
practice.
o Important laws considered: RA 10029 (Philippine Psychology Act of 2009), RA
11036 (Mental Health Act of 2018), RA 10912 (Continuing Professional
Development Act of 2016).
2. Declaration of Principles
• Core Idea:
o Recognizes the inherent worth and dignity of all human beings, regardless of
social status, ethnicity, gender, or other characteristics.
o Stresses respect for cultural diversity and the rights of indigenous
communities.
• Related Values:
o Free and informed consent: Practitioners must ensure consent is culturally
relevant for individuals and groups.
o Privacy and confidentiality: Personal information must be protected unless
legally required to disclose.
o Example: A psychologist conducting research in an indigenous community
must respect their customs and beliefs, limiting interference unless there is
a clear violation of ethical standards that harms well-being.
3.2 Principle II: Competent Caring for the Well-Being of Persons and Peoples
• Core Idea:
o Practitioners are required to prioritize client welfare, ensuring no harm
comes to individuals or groups, and must apply their knowledge in an
appropriate and culturally sensitive manner.
• Related Values:
o Maximizing benefits and minimizing harm: Correcting or offsetting harm
that may occur due to professional activities.
o Competence: Professionals must maintain competence by engaging in
continuing education and self-knowledge.
o Telepsychology: Ethical principles must apply equally to virtual platforms.
o Example: During the COVID-19 pandemic, psychologists offering online
counseling must ensure the same standards of confidentiality and care are
maintained as in face-to-face sessions.
• Core Idea:
o Integrity is crucial for maintaining public trust in psychology. Practitioners
must engage in honest and transparent communication, avoid conflicts of
interest, and manage biases.
• Related Values:
o Honesty: Truthful communication in all aspects of professional practice.
o Conflict of interest: Disclose any potential conflicts that could impair
judgment or lead to exploitation.
o Example: A psychologist working as a consultant for a pharmaceutical
company should disclose any financial ties if their research involves drug
trials.
3.4 Principle IV: Professional and Scientific Responsibilities to Society
• Core Idea:
o Psychology as a discipline has a responsibility to contribute to the
betterment of society through the advancement of knowledge and
adherence to ethical standards.
• Related Values:
o Scientific contribution: Promoting knowledge that benefits society,
ensuring ethical use of research findings.
o Training and supervision: Proper training in ethical responsibilities is
essential to prevent harm.
o Example: Psychologists must ensure their research on mental health does
not perpetuate harmful stereotypes about specific populations.
• Key points:
o Misuse of work: Psychologists must correct or address any
misrepresentation of their work.
o Conflicts with law: Where ethical guidelines conflict with the law, efforts
should be made to resolve conflicts while adhering to legal obligations.
o Reporting violations: Serious violations must be reported to the appropriate
authorities.
4.2 Competence
• Avoiding harm: Psychologists must avoid harming clients, students, or others and
minimize unavoidable harm.
o Example: If a psychologist’s dual role (e.g., teacher and therapist) may
impair objectivity, they must resolve the conflict in the client’s best interest.
5. Telepsychology
• Ethical Standards:
o Informed consent: Ensure clients understand the nature of telepsychology
services and potential risks (e.g., data breaches).
o Confidentiality: Practitioners must ensure that all communications are
secure and meet the same standards as face-to-face services.
o Example: When using video conferencing, psychologists should use
encrypted platforms and educate clients on confidentiality limits.
6. Conclusion