Guidelines for the development of an ethical code for clinical psychologists in South Africa
The aim of this thesis is to propose guidelines for the development of an ethical code for South African clinical psychologists. A discussion of the philosophical basis of ethical codes and a critical examination of the most developed and useful existing ethical code for psychologists - the APA code - serve as background information for identifying the essential elements of a code for clinical psychologists in this country. It is concluded that such a code should consist of three levels - an ethical theory, ethical principles and rules for specific situations. The application of this structure to practical situations in which the clinical psychologist functions is illustrated in the final section of the thesis with particular reference to psychotherapy, psychological assessment, research and professional conduct and relationships. The particular circumstances of South African society which may complicate ethical issues in these areas are considered, and procedural recommendations are made concerning the establishment of an ethical code which will have specific relevance to the practise of clinical psychology in South Africa.
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