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An overview of the major changes in the 2002 APA Ethics Code
Samuel Knapp1, Leon VandeCreek
1Pennsylvania Psychological Association, 76 Country Lane, Landisville, PA 17538-1042, USA. sam@papsy.org
Professional Psychology, Research and Practice
|February 14, 2006
Summary
The 2002 American Psychological Association Ethics Code updates principles for psychologists, focusing on fairness for diverse groups and reducing punitive measures. It maintains the structure of the prior code.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Ethics
- Professional Conduct
Background:
- The American Psychological Association (APA) periodically revises its Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct.
- The 1992 Ethics Code provided the framework for professional conduct.
- Previous ethical guidelines may have had unintended punitive consequences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the significant modifications introduced in the 2002 APA Ethics Code.
- To analyze how the revised code impacts the obligations of psychologists.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the 2002 Ethics Code in addressing cultural and linguistic diversity and student needs.
Main Methods:
- Content analysis of the 2002 APA Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct.
- Comparative review of the 2002 and 1992 APA Ethics Codes.
- Discussion of identified shortcomings and areas for improvement.
Main Results:
- The 2002 Ethics Code largely retains the structure of the 1992 version.
- Key changes include increased sensitivity to cultural and linguistic minorities and students.
- Efforts were made to minimize the potential for undue punishment of psychologists.
Conclusions:
- The 2002 APA Ethics Code represents an evolution rather than a radical departure from previous standards.
- The revisions aim for a more inclusive and equitable application of ethical principles.
- Further discussion is warranted regarding the limitations of the 2002 Ethics Code.