On-Line Course: Being an Ethical Psychologist

[based on the Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists, Fourth Edition (CPA, 2017)]

by Carole Sinclair, Ph.D.

The Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) is pleased to offer web-based continuing education opportunities for psychologists that also may be of interest to students of psychology, to members of other disciplines, and to the public.
One of these courses is CPA’s on-line course “Being an Ethical Psychologist.” This course provides a tutorial on the Canadian Code and may be helpful if you have ever struggled with any of the following questions:

  • What is the basis for the ethical principles of psychologists and members of other disciplines?
  • What are my ethical responsibilities as a practitioner, researcher, professor, student, administrator, etc.?
  • What do I need to do to ensure that I am respectful of others’ cultures and worldviews?
  • What are my responsibilities when I receive a third-party request for the disclosure of confidential information?
  • When does offering money or a gift to research participants become coercive?
  • How do I handle my own biases, needs, and pressures when working with clients, research participants, students, etc.?
  • When is it appropriate to have a personal relationship with a client or student? When is it not appropriate?
  • What should I do when I think a colleague has done something unethical?
  • Are there any limits to academic freedom?
  • How can ethical principles and ethical values help me decide what to do when I have conflicting responsibilities or there are conflicting interests?

The course examines codes of ethics, major ethical expectations, and ethical decision making, as they relate to practice, research, teaching, and management/administration activities. Topics covered include: the history of codes of ethics; the development of codes of ethics for psychologists and for the members of other disciplines; ethical issues and standards related to four ethical principles (respect for the dignity of persons and peoples; responsible caring; integrity in relationships; responsibility to society); and ethical decision making. Lectures and case presentations are employed to outline and demonstrate ethical expectations, issues, and problem solving.
Click here for more information about this course.

CE Credits: 15 CE credits from the Canadian Psychological Association upon completion of quizzes with a grade of at least 75%.

Registration provides 5 weeks access to this CE course.

Click here to view CPA’s complete on-line course catalogue, how to register for “Being an Ethical Psychologist,” or how to register for one of CPA’s other on-line courses.