The article focuses on exploring the nature of psychologists’ misconduct through examination of clients’ complaints. Complaints from clients are common in the psychological field; nearly 20 of 100 psychologists receiving at least one complaint in a 30-year career (Grenyer & Lewis, 2012). According to the research’s findings, ethical breaches present one of primary types of complaints filed by clients. In some cases, additionally to ethical issues in psychologists’ misconduct, there can be complaints about professional incompetency, and communication issues.
The Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct created by the American Psychological Association (APA) in 2017 provides assistance for psychology professionals in identifying potential areas of misconduct, such as confidentiality and relationships with clients. Considering the issue of professional incompetence, the APA’s Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct requires professionals to maintain their competence, avoid delegation of their work, and refrain from personal conflicts with clients. The course of action in cases of potential personal conflicts includes identifying the issues, obtaining consultation with other professionals, and limiting or suspending their work duties (APA, 2017). Furthermore, considering the communication difficulties besides conflicts, APA requires professionals to eliminate unfair discrimination and avoid harassing and judging any aspects of the client’s life to ensure positive and open communication. Thus, APA plays an important role in a professional’s life and helps psychology specialists in their careers by identifying potential areas for misconduct.
Self-care presents a vital component of work for psychology professionals, as their internal mental problems can negatively influence their ability to help clients. Therefore, self-care is essential for psychology specialists’ adherence to professional standards. Lack of self-care can negatively affect a psychologist’s progress with clients through difficulties in communication caused by boredom and lack of attention. One of the main self-care tips recommended on APA’s website is finding a work-life balance (2014). Lastly, psychologists can also use self-assessment tools to ensure clients’ positive results from consultations and therapies.
References
American Psychological Association (APA). (2017). Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct.
APA. (2014). Self-care resources for psychologists.
Grenyer, B. F., & Lewis, K. L. (2012). Prevalence, prediction, and prevention of psychologist misconduct.Australian Psychologist, 47(2), 68-76.