Ethical Resolution - Eppp Skills

1. What distinguishes an ethical dilemma from an ethical violation?

   Dilemma: conflict between duties; violation: clear standard breach. This distinction guides whether the issue requires balancing competing ethical obligations or addressing a straightforward infraction.

2. What is the best next step after identifying an ethical issue and relevant standards?

   Assess context, stakeholders, risks, and available options. This comprehensive assessment informs the selection of the most appropriate resolution strategy.

3. What is the primary purpose of the APA General Principles in ethical decision-making?

   Aspirational guidance, not enforceable rules. They inspire high standards of conduct but do not form the basis for disciplinary action.

4. What is the best immediate action when you suspect a colleague is violating ethics?

   Informal resolution if appropriate and not violating confidentiality. This approach encourages collegial correction before escalating to formal complaints.

5. Which option best describes "boundary crossing" versus "boundary violation"?

   Crossing: potentially helpful deviation; violation: harmful/exploitative breach. Crossings may benefit the therapeutic process, whereas violations typically result in harm or exploitation.

6. What is the correct action when an Ethics Code standard conflicts with law or regulation?

   Make known commitment to ethics and take steps to resolve conflict. This approach upholds ethical integrity while addressing legal requirements.

7. Which option best describes "stakeholders" in an ethical analysis?

   All persons or entities affected by the decision and its outcomes. Identifying stakeholders ensures that the decision considers the welfare and rights of everyone involved.

8. What is the key risk of relying only on personal values when resolving ethical dilemmas?

   Value-based bias that can override professional standards. Personal values may introduce subjectivity, potentially leading to decisions inconsistent with established ethical guidelines.

9. Identify the correct priority when client welfare conflicts with psychologist convenience.

   Client welfare takes priority. Ethical practice demands prioritizing the well-being of clients over personal or professional convenience.

10. Which option is the best final step after implementing an ethical decision?

    Evaluate outcomes and revise the plan if needed. Ongoing evaluation ensures the decision effectively resolves the dilemma and allows for necessary modifications.

11. Identify the best single action when two ethical duties conflict and no option is ideal.

    Choose the least harmful option consistent with standards and document. This approach aligns with the principle of nonmaleficence while adhering to ethical guidelines and providing a record of reasoning.

12. Which two APA Ethics Code sections are consulted first for any ethical concern?

    General Principles and Ethical Standards. These sections provide the foundational framework for evaluating and addressing ethical concerns in psychological practice.

13. What is the ethically preferred approach when multiple reasonable options exist?

    Choose the option that best protects welfare and minimizes harm. This prioritizes the core ethical principles of benefiting others and avoiding harm.

14. Identify the best action when an ethical complaint is filed against you.

    Cooperate with ethics process and seek legal/ethical consultation. Cooperation demonstrates professionalism, and consultation aids in navigating the process effectively.

15. What is the most ethical response when you recognize your competence is insufficient?

    Obtain training/supervision, refer, or limit practice to competence. These actions ensure services are provided only within areas of established expertise, safeguarding client welfare.

16. What is the correct action when a law requires conduct that violates the Ethics Code?

    Comply with law while minimizing harm and adhering to ethics when possible. This balances legal obligations with ethical responsibilities to protect those affected.

17. Which option is the best definition of "consultation" in ethical practice?

    Seeking input from qualified colleagues without breaching confidentiality. This practice enhances decision-making by incorporating expert advice while protecting sensitive information.

18. What is the next step if informal resolution of a colleague's ethical violation is not appropriate?

    Report to appropriate authority (ethics committee, board, or supervisor). Formal reporting ensures accountability and protection of the public when informal methods are insufficient.

19. What is the most defensible way to manage uncertainty in an ethical dilemma?

    Seek consultation and document the decision-making process. Consultation provides objective perspectives, and documentation ensures accountability and defensibility.

20. What is the main purpose of documenting ethical decision-making steps?

    Create a contemporaneous record supporting rationale and actions. Such records provide evidence of thoughtful, ethical reasoning if the decision is later questioned.

21. What is the correct action when an organizational demand conflicts with the Ethics Code?

    Clarify ethics obligations and attempt to resolve the conflict. This ensures adherence to ethical standards despite organizational pressures.

22. What is the primary purpose of the APA Ethical Standards in ethical decision-making?

    Enforceable minimum requirements for conduct. They establish mandatory behaviors and can lead to sanctions if violated.

23. What is the most ethical first response to a potential multiple relationship concern?

    Evaluate risk of impairment/exploitation and consider alternatives. This assessment helps determine if the relationship could reasonably impair objectivity or cause harm.

24. What is the first step in a systematic ethical decision-making process in psychology?

    Identify and clearly define the ethical problem or dilemma. This initial step ensures a thorough understanding of the issue before proceeding to analysis and resolution.

25. What is the most ethical action when a conflict of interest is identified?

    Disclose, manage, and if needed withdraw or refer. Transparency and proactive management prevent harm and maintain professional integrity.

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