[Sexual relations between therapist and patient]

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Psychology
• Professional Conduct

Context:

• Addresses the persistent issue of sexual misconduct within the therapeutic relationship.
• Highlights the prevalence of therapist-patient sexual relations despite ethical prohibitions.
• Examines the specific context of professional conduct in Israel, noting a 'conspiracy of silence'.

Purpose:

• To describe the problem of sexual relations between therapists and patients.
• To review existing measures for minimizing and punishing ethical violations.
• To discuss strategies for combating professional misconduct and protecting patients.

Summary:

• Sexual misconduct by therapists (physicians or psychotherapists) is a recognized and not uncommon ethical violation.
• The study reviews methods to reduce and penalize such breaches of conduct.
• It critically examines professional collusion that obstructs patient complaints, particularly in Israel.

Impact:

• Aims to inform professional bodies and policymakers about the scope of the problem.
• Recommends measures to improve patient protection and uphold ethical standards.
• Encourages a move away from professional silence towards accountability.