The American Psychological Association's (APA) Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code

of Conduct

This Ethics Code applies only to psychologists' activities that are part of their scientific, educational,
or professional roles as psychologists. Areas covered include but are not limited to the clinical,
counseling, and school practice of psychology; research; teaching; supervision of trainees; public
service; policy development; social intervention; development of assessment instruments; conducting
assessments; educational counseling; organizational consulting; forensic activities; program design
and evaluation; and administration. It has as its goals the welfare and protection of the individuals and
groups with whom psychologists work and the education of members, students, and the public
regarding ethical standards of the discipline.

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

Principle A: Beneficence and Nonmaleficence

Psychologists strive to benefit those with whom they work and take care to do no harm. In their professional actions,
psychologists seek to safeguard the welfare and rights of those with whom they interact professionally and other
affected persons, and the welfare of animal subjects of research. When conflicts occur among psychologists'
obligations or concerns, they attempt to resolve these conflicts in a responsible fashion that avoids or minimizes harm.
Because psychologists' scientific and professional judgments and actions may affect the lives of others, they are alert
to and guard against personal, financial, social, organizational, or political factors that might lead to misuse of their
influence. Psychologists strive to be aware of the possible effect of their own physical and mental health on their
ability to help those with whom they work.
Principle B: Fidelity and Responsibility
Psychologists establish relationships of trust with those with whom they work. They are aware of their professional
and scientific responsibilities to society and to the specific communities in which they work. Psychologists uphold
professional standards of conduct, clarify their professional roles and obligations, accept appropriate responsibility for
their behavior, and seek to manage conflicts of interest that could lead to exploitation or harm. Psychologists consult
with, refer to, or cooperate with other professionals and institutions to the extent needed to serve the best interests of
those with whom they work. They are concerned about the ethical compliance of their colleagues' scientific and
professional conduct. Psychologists strive to contribute a portion of their professional time for little or no
compensation or personal advantage.
Principle C: Integrity
Psychologists seek to promote accuracy, honesty, and truthfulness in the science, teaching, and practice of
psychology. In these activities psychologists do not steal, cheat or engage in fraud, subterfuge, or intentional
misrepresentation of fact. Psychologists strive to keep their promises and to avoid unwise or unclear commitments. In
situations in which deception may be ethically justifiable to maximize benefits and minimize harm, psychologists
have a serious obligation to consider the need for, the possible consequences of, and their responsibility to correct any
resulting mistrust or other harmful effects that arise from the use of such techniques.
Principle D: Justice
Psychologists recognize that fairness and justice entitle all persons to access to and benefit from the contributions of
psychology and to equal quality in the processes, procedures, and services being conducted by psychologists.
Psychologists exercise reasonable judgment and take precautions to ensure that their potential biases, the boundaries
of their competence, and the limitations of their expertise do not lead to or condone unjust practices.
Principle E: Respect for People's Rights and Dignity
Psychologists respect the dignity and worth of all people, and the rights of individuals to privacy, confidentiality, and
self-determination. Psychologists are aware that special safeguards may be necessary to protect the rights and welfare
of persons or communities whose vulnerabilities impair autonomous decision making. Psychologists are aware of and
respect cultural, individual, and role differences, including those based on age, gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity,
culture, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability, language, and socioeconomic status, and consider these
factors when working with members of such groups. Psychologists try to eliminate the effect on their work of biases
based on those factors, and they do not knowingly participate in or condone activities of others based upon such
prejudices.

RESOLVING ETHICAL ISSUES

1.01 Misuse of Psychologists' Work
If psychologists learn of misuse or misrepresentation of their work, they take reasonable steps to correct or minimize
the misuse or misrepresentation.
1.02 Conflicts Between Ethics and Law, Regulations, or Other Governing Legal Authority
If psychologists’ ethical responsibilities conflict with law, regulations, or other governing legal authority,
psychologists clarify the nature of the conflict, make known their commitment to the Ethics Code, and take reasonable
steps to resolve the conflict consistent with the General Principles and Ethical Standards of the Ethics Code. Under no
circumstances may this standard be used to justify or defend violating human rights.
1.03 Conflicts Between Ethics and Organizational Demands 
If the demands of an organization with which psychologists are affiliated or for whom they are working are in conflict
with this Ethics Code, psychologists clarify the nature of the conflict, make known their commitment to the Ethics
Code, and take reasonable steps to resolve the conflict consistent with the General Principles and Ethical Standards of
the Ethics Code. Under no circumstances may this standard be used to justify or defend violating human rights.
1.04 Informal Resolution of Ethical Violations
When psychologists believe that there may have been an ethical violation by another psychologist, they attempt to
resolve the issue by bringing it to the attention of that individual, if an informal resolution appears appropriate and the
intervention does not violate any confidentiality rights that may be involved. (See also Standards 1.02, Conflicts
Between Ethics and Law, Regulations, or Other Governing Legal Authority, and 1.03, Conflicts Between Ethics and
Organizational Demands
.)
1.05 Reporting Ethical Violations
If an apparent ethical violation has substantially harmed or is likely to substantially harm a person or organization and
is not appropriate for informal resolution under Standard 1.04, Informal Resolution of Ethical Violations, or is not
resolved properly in that fashion, psychologists take further action appropriate to the situation. Such action might
include referral to state or national committees on professional ethics, to state licensing boards, or to the appropriate
institutional authorities. This standard does not apply when an intervention would violate confidentiality rights or
when psychologists have been retained to review the work of another psychologist whose professional conduct is in
question. (See also Standard 1.02, Conflicts Between Ethics and Law, Regulations, or Other Governing Legal
Authority.)
1.06 Cooperating with Ethics Committees
Psychologists cooperate in ethics investigations, proceedings, and resulting requirements of the APA or any affiliated
state psychological association to which they belong. In doing so, they address any confidentiality issues. Failure to
cooperate is itself an ethics violation. However, making a request for deferment of adjudication of an ethics complaint
pending the outcome of litigation does not alone constitute noncooperation.
1.07 Improper Complaints
Psychologists do not file or encourage the filing of ethics complaints that are made with reckless disregard for or
willful ignorance of facts that would disprove the allegation.
1.08 Unfair Discrimination Against Complainants and Respondents
Psychologists do not deny persons employment, advancement, admissions to academic or other programs, tenure, or
promotion, based solely upon their having made or their being the subject of an ethics complaint. This does not
preclude taking action based upon the outcome of such proceedings or considering other appropriate information.

COMPETENCE

2.01 Boundaries of Competence

(a) Psychologists provide services, teach, and conduct research with populations and in areas only within the
boundaries of their competence, based on their education, training, supervised experience, consultation, study, or
professional experience.
(b) Where scientific or professional knowledge in the discipline of psychology establishes that an understanding of
factors associated with age, gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, culture, national origin, religion, sexual
orientation, disability, language, or socioeconomic status is essential for effective implementation of their services or
research, psychologists have or obtain the training, experience, consultation, or supervision necessary to ensure the
competence of their services, or they make appropriate referrals, except as provided in Standard 2.02, Providing
Services in Emergencies.
(c) Psychologists planning to provide services, teach, or conduct research involving populations, areas, techniques, or
technologies new to them undertake relevant education, training, supervised experience, consultation, or study.
(d) When psychologists are asked to provide services to individuals for whom appropriate mental health services are
not available and for which psychologists have not obtained the competence necessary, psychologists with closely
related prior training or experience may provide such services in order to ensure that services are not denied if they
make a reasonable effort to obtain the competence required by using relevant research, training, consultation, or study.
(e) In those emerging areas in which generally recognized standards for preparatory training do not yet exist,
psychologists nevertheless take reasonable steps to ensure the competence of their work and to protect clients/patients,
students, supervisees, research participants, organizational clients, and others from harm.
(f) When assuming forensic roles, psychologists are or become reasonably familiar with the judicial or administrative
rules governing their roles.
2.02 Providing Services in Emergencies
In emergencies, when psychologists provide services to individuals for whom other mental health services are not
available and for which psychologists have not obtained the necessary training, psychologists may provide such
services in order to ensure that services are not denied. The services are discontinued as soon as the emergency has
ended or appropriate services are available.
2.03 Maintaining Competence
Psychologists undertake ongoing efforts to develop and maintain their competence.
2.04 Bases for Scientific and Professional Judgments
Psychologists' work is based upon established scientific and professional knowledge of the discipline. (See also
Standards 2.01e, Boundaries of Competence, and 10.01b, Informed Consent to Therapy.)
2.05 Delegation of Work to Others
Psychologists who delegate work to employees, supervisees, or research or teaching assistants or who use the services
of others, such as interpreters, take reasonable steps to (1) avoid delegating such work to persons who have a multiple
relationship with those being served that would likely lead to exploitation or loss of objectivity; (2) authorize only
those responsibilities that such persons can be expected to perform competently on the basis of their education,
training, or experience, either independently or with the level of supervision being provided; and (3) see that such
persons perform these services competently. (See also Standards 2.02, Providing Services in Emergencies; 3.05,
Multiple Relationships; 4.01, Maintaining Confidentiality; 9.01, Bases for Assessments; 9.02, Use of
Assessments; 9.03, Informed Consent in Assessments; and 9.07, Assessment by Unqualified Persons.)
2.06 Personal Problems and Conflicts
(a) Psychologists refrain from initiating an activity when they know or should know that there is a substantial
likelihood that their personal problems will prevent them from performing their work-related activities in a competent
manner.
(b) When psychologists become aware of personal problems that may interfere with their performing work-related
duties adequately, they take appropriate measures, such as obtaining professional consultation or assistance, and
determine whether they should limit, suspend, or terminate their work-related duties. (See also Standard 10.10,
Terminating Therapy.)

HUMAN RELATIONS

3.01 Unfair Discrimination

In their work-related activities, psychologists do not engage in unfair discrimination based on age, gender, gender
identity, race, ethnicity, culture, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, or any
basis proscribed by law.
3.02 Sexual Harassment
Psychologists do not engage in sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is sexual solicitation, physical advances, or
verbal or nonverbal conduct that is sexual in nature, that occurs in connection with the psychologist's activities or
roles as a psychologist, and that either (1) is unwelcome, is offensive, or creates a hostile workplace or educational
environment, and the psychologist knows or is told this or (2) is sufficiently severe or intense to be abusive to a
reasonable person in the context. Sexual harassment can consist of a single intense or severe act or of multiple
persistent or pervasive acts. (See also Standard 1.08, Unfair Discrimination Against Complainants and Respondents.)
3.03 Other Harassment
Psychologists do not knowingly engage in behavior that is harassing or demeaning to persons with whom they interact
in their work based on factors such as those persons' age, gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, culture, national
origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability, language, or socioeconomic status.
3.04 Avoiding Harm
(a) Psychologists take reasonable steps to avoid harming their clients/patients, students, supervisees, research
participants, organizational clients, and others with whom they work, and to minimize harm where it is foreseeable
and unavoidable. 
(b) Psychologists do not participate in, facilitate, assist, or otherwise engage in torture, defined as any act by which
severe pain or suffering, whether physical or mental, is intentionally inflicted on a person, or in any other cruel,
inhuman, or degrading behavior that violates 3.04(a).
3.05 Multiple Relationships 
(a) A multiple relationship occurs when a psychologist is in a professional role with a person and (1) at the same time
is in another role with the same person, (2) at the same time is in a relationship with a person closely associated with
or related to the person with whom the psychologist has the professional relationship, or (3) promises to enter into
another relationship in the future with the person or a person closely associated with or related to the person.
A psychologist refrains from entering into a multiple relationship if the multiple relationship could reasonably be
expected to impair the psychologist's objectivity, competence, or effectiveness in performing his or her functions as a
psychologist, or otherwise risks exploitation or harm to the person with whom the professional relationship exists.
Multiple relationships that would not reasonably be expected to cause impairment or risk exploitation or harm are not
unethical.
(b) If a psychologist finds that, due to unforeseen factors, a potentially harmful multiple relationship has arisen, the
psychologist takes reasonable steps to resolve it with due regard for the best interests of the affected person and
maximal compliance with the Ethics Code.
(c) When psychologists are required by law, institutional policy, or extraordinary circumstances to serve in more than
one role in judicial or administrative proceedings, at the outset they clarify role expectations and the extent of
confidentiality and thereafter as changes occur. (See also Standards 3.04, Avoiding Harm, and 3.07, Third-Party
Requests for Services.)
3.06 Conflict of Interest
Psychologists refrain from taking on a professional role when personal, scientific, professional, legal, financial, or
other interests or relationships could reasonably be expected to (1) impair their objectivity, competence, or
effectiveness in performing their functions as psychologists or (2) expose the person or organization with whom the
professional relationship exists to harm or exploitation.
3.07 Third-Party Requests for Services
When psychologists agree to provide services to a person or entity at the request of a third party, psychologists
attempt to clarify at the outset of the service the nature of the relationship with all individuals or organizations
involved. This clarification includes the role of the psychologist (e.g., therapist, consultant, diagnostician, or expert
witness), an identification of who is the client, the probable uses of the services provided or the information obtained,
and the fact that there may be limits to confidentiality. (See also Standards 3.05, Multiple relationships, and 4.02,
Discussing the Limits of Confidentiality.)
3.08 Exploitative Relationships
Psychologists do not exploit persons over whom they have supervisory, evaluative or other authority such as
clients/patients, students, supervisees, research participants, and employees. (See also Standards 3.05, Multiple
Relationships; 6.04, Fees and Financial Arrangements; 6.05, Barter with Clients/Patients; 7.07, Sexual Relationships
with Students and Supervisees; 10.05, Sexual Intimacies with Current Therapy Clients/Patients; 10.06, Sexual
Intimacies with Relatives or Significant Others of Current Therapy Clients/Patients; 10.07, Therapy with Former
Sexual Partners; and 10.08, Sexual Intimacies with Former Therapy Clients/Patients.)
3.09 Cooperation with Other Professionals
When indicated and professionally appropriate, psychologists cooperate with other professionals in order to serve
their clients/patients effectively and appropriately. (See also Standard 4.05, Disclosures.)
3.10 Informed Consent
(a) When psychologists conduct research or provide assessment, therapy, counseling, or consulting services in person
or via electronic transmission or other forms of communication, they obtain the informed consent of the individual or
individuals using language that is reasonably understandable to that person or persons except when conducting such
activities without consent is mandated by law or governmental regulation or as otherwise provided in this Ethics
Code. (See also Standards 8.02, Informed Consent to Research; 9.03, Informed Consent in Assessments; and 10.01,
Informed Consent to Therapy.)
(b) For persons who are legally incapable of giving informed consent, psychologists nevertheless (1) provide an
appropriate explanation, (2) seek the individual's assent, (3) consider such persons' preferences and best interests, and
(4) obtain appropriate permission from a legally authorized person, if such substitute consent is permitted or required
by law. When consent by a legally authorized person is not permitted or required by law, psychologists take
reasonable steps to protect the individual's rights and welfare.
(c) When psychological services are court ordered or otherwise mandated, psychologists inform the individual of the
nature of the anticipated services, including whether the services are court ordered or mandated and any limits of
confidentiality, before proceeding.
(d) Psychologists appropriately document written or oral consent, permission, and assent. (See also Standards 8.02,
Informed Consent to Research; 9.03, Informed Consent in Assessments; and 10.01, Informed Consent to Therapy.)
3.11 Psychological Services Delivered to or Through Organizations
(a) Psychologists delivering services to or through organizations provide information beforehand to clients and when
appropriate those directly affected by the services about (1) the nature and objectives of the services, (2) the intended
recipients, (3) which of the individuals are clients, (4) the relationship the psychologist will have with each person and
the organization, (5) the probable uses of services provided and information obtained, (6) who will have access to the
information, and (7) limits of confidentiality. As soon as feasible, they provide information about the results and
conclusions of such services to appropriate persons.
(b) If psychologists will be precluded by law or by organizational roles from providing such information to particular
individuals or groups, they so inform those individuals or groups at the outset of the service.
3.12 Interruption of Psychological Services
Unless otherwise covered by contract, psychologists make reasonable efforts to plan for facilitating services in the
event that psychological services are interrupted by factors such as the psychologist's illness, death, unavailability,
relocation, or retirement or by the client's/patient's relocation or financial limitations. (See also Standard 6.02c,
Maintenance, Dissemination, and Disposal of Confidential Records of Professional and Scientific Work.)

PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY

4.01 Maintaining Confidentiality

Psychologists have a primary obligation and take reasonable precautions to protect confidential information obtained
through or stored in any medium, recognizing that the extent and limits of confidentiality may be regulated by law or
established by institutional rules or professional or scientific relationship. (See also Standard 2.05, Delegation of
Work to Others.)
4.02 Discussing the Limits of Confidentiality
(a) Psychologists discuss with persons (including, to the extent feasible, persons who are legally incapable of giving
informed consent and their legal representatives) and organizations with whom they establish a scientific or
professional relationship (1) the relevant limits of confidentiality and (2) the foreseeable uses of the information
generated through their psychological activities. (See also Standard 3.10, Informed Consent.)
(b) Unless it is not feasible or is contraindicated, the discussion of confidentiality occurs at the outset of the
relationship and thereafter as new circumstances may warrant.
(c) Psychologists who offer services, products, or information via electronic transmission inform clients/patients of the
risks to privacy and limits of confidentiality.
4.03 Recording
Before recording the voices or images of individuals to whom they provide services, psychologists obtain permission
from all such persons or their legal representatives. (See also Standards 8.03, Informed Consent for Recording Voices
and Images in Research; 8.05, Dispensing with Informed Consent for Research; and 8.07, Deception in Research.)
4.04 Minimizing Intrusions on Privacy
(a) Psychologists include in written and oral reports and consultations, only information germane to the purpose for
which the communication is made.
(b) Psychologists discuss confidential information obtained in their work only for appropriate scientific or
professional purposes and only with persons clearly concerned with such matters.
4.05 Disclosures
(a) Psychologists may disclose confidential information with the appropriate consent of the organizational client, the
individual client/patient, or another legally authorized person on behalf of the client/patient unless prohibited by law.
(b) Psychologists disclose confidential information without the consent of the individual only as mandated by law, or
where permitted by law for a valid purpose such as to (1) provide needed professional services; (2) obtain appropriate
professional consultations; (3) protect the client/patient, psychologist, or others from harm; or (4) obtain payment for
services from a client/patient, in which instance disclosure is limited to the minimum that is necessary to achieve the
purpose. (See also Standard 6.04e, Fees and Financial Arrangements.)
4.06 Consultations
When consulting with colleagues, (1) psychologists do not disclose confidential information that reasonably could
lead to the identification of a client/patient, research participant, or other person or organization with whom they have
a confidential relationship unless they have obtained the prior consent of the person or organization or the disclosure
cannot be avoided, and (2) they disclose information only to the extent necessary to achieve the purposes of the
consultation. (See also Standard 4.01, Maintaining Confidentiality.)
4.07 Use of Confidential Information for Didactic or Other Purposes
Psychologists do not disclose in their writings, lectures, or other public media, confidential, personally identifiable
information concerning their clients/patients, students, research participants, organizational clients, or other recipients
of their services that they obtained during the course of their work, unless (1) they take reasonable steps to disguise
the person or organization, (2) the person or organization has consented in writing, or (3) there is legal authorization
for doing so.

ADVERTISING AND OTHER PUBLIC STATEMENTS

5.01 Avoidance of False or Deceptive Statements

(a) Public statements include but are not limited to paid or unpaid advertising, product endorsements, grant
applications, licensing applications, other credentialing applications, brochures, printed matter, directory listings,
personal resumes or curricula vitae, or comments for use in media such as print or electronic transmission, statements
in legal proceedings, lectures and public oral presentations, and published materials. Psychologists do not knowingly
make public statements that are false, deceptive, or fraudulent concerning their research, practice, or other work
activities or those of persons or organizations with which they are affiliated.
(b) Psychologists do not make false, deceptive, or fraudulent statements concerning (1) their training, experience, or
competence; (2) their academic degrees; (3) their credentials; (4) their institutional or association affiliations; (5) their
services; (6) the scientific or clinical basis for, or results or degree of success of, their services; (7) their fees; or (8)
their publications or research findings.
(c) Psychologists claim degrees as credentials for their health services only if those degrees (1) were earned from a
regionally accredited educational institution or (2) were the basis for psychology licensure by the state in which they
practice.
5.02 Statements by Others
(a) Psychologists who engage others to create or place public statements that promote their professional practice,
products, or activities retain professional responsibility for such statements.
(b) Psychologists do not compensate employees of press, radio, television, or other communication media in return for
publicity in a news item. (See also Standard 1.01, Misuse of Psychologists' Work.)
(c) A paid advertisement relating to psychologists' activities must be identified or clearly recognizable as such.
5.03 Descriptions of Workshops and Non-Degree-Granting Educational Programs
To the degree to which they exercise control, psychologists responsible for announcements, catalogs, brochures, or
advertisements describing workshops, seminars, or other non-degree-granting educational programs ensure that they
accurately describe the audience for which the program is intended, the educational objectives, the presenters, and the
fees involved.
5.04 Media Presentations
When psychologists provide public advice or comment via print, Internet, or other electronic transmission, they take
precautions to ensure that statements (1) are based on their professional knowledge, training, or experience in accord
with appropriate psychological literature and practice; (2) are otherwise consistent with this Ethics Code; and (3) do
not indicate that a professional relationship has been established with the recipient. (See also Standard 2.04, Bases for
Scientific and Professional Judgments.)
5.05 Testimonials
Psychologists do not solicit testimonials from current therapy clients/patients or other persons who because of their
particular circumstances are vulnerable to undue influence.
5.06 In-Person Solicitation
Psychologists do not engage, directly or through agents, in uninvited in-person solicitation of business from actual or
potential therapy clients/patients or other persons who because of their particular circumstances are vulnerable to
undue influence. However, this prohibition does not preclude (1) attempting to implement appropriate collateral
contacts for the purpose of benefiting an already engaged therapy client/patient or (2) providing disaster or community
outreach services.

RECORD KEEPING AND FEES

6.01 Documentation of Professional and Scientific Work and Maintenance of Records

Psychologists create, and to the extent the records are under their control, maintain, disseminate, store, retain, and
dispose of records and data relating to their professional and scientific work in order to (1) facilitate provision of
services later by them or by other professionals, (2) allow for replication of research design and analyses, (3) meet
institutional requirements, (4) ensure accuracy of billing and payments, and (5) ensure compliance with law. (See also
Standard 4.01, Maintaining Confidentiality.)
6.02 Maintenance, Dissemination, and Disposal of Confidential Records of Professional and Scientific Work
(a) Psychologists maintain confidentiality in creating, storing, accessing, transferring, and disposing of records under
their control, whether these are written, automated, or in any other medium. (See also Standards 4.01, Maintaining
Confidentiality, and 6.01, Documentation of Professional and Scientific Work and Maintenance of Records.)
(b) If confidential information concerning recipients of psychological services is entered into databases or systems of
records available to persons whose access has not been consented to by the recipient, psychologists use coding or
other techniques to avoid the inclusion of personal identifiers.
(c) Psychologists make plans in advance to facilitate the appropriate transfer and to protect the confidentiality of
records and data in the event of psychologists' withdrawal from positions or practice. (See also Standards 3.12,
Interruption of Psychological Services, and 10.09, Interruption of Therapy.)
6.03 Withholding Records for Nonpayment
Psychologists may not withhold records under their control that are requested and needed for a client's/patient's
emergency treatment solely because payment has not been received.
6.04 Fees and Financial Arrangements
(a) As early as is feasible in a professional or scientific relationship, psychologists and recipients of psychological
services reach an agreement specifying compensation and billing arrangements.
(b) Psychologists' fee practices are consistent with law.
(c) Psychologists do not misrepresent their fees.
(d) If limitations to services can be anticipated because of limitations in financing, this is discussed with the recipient
of services as early as is feasible. (See also Standards 10.09, Interruption of Therapy, and 10.10, Terminating
Therapy.)
(e) If the recipient of services does not pay for services as agreed, and if psychologists intend to use collection
agencies or legal measures to collect the fees, psychologists first inform the person that such measures will be taken
and provide that person an opportunity to make prompt payment. (See also Standards 4.05, Disclosures; 6.03,
Withholding Records for Nonpayment; and 10.01, Informed Consent to Therapy.)
6.05 Barter with Clients/Patients
Barter is the acceptance of goods, services, or other nonmonetary remuneration from clients/patients in return for
psychological services. Psychologists may barter only if (1) it is not clinically contraindicated, and (2) the resulting
arrangement is not exploitative. (See also Standards 3.05, Multiple Relationships, and 6.04, Fees and Financial
Arrangements.)
6.06 Accuracy in Reports to Payors and Funding Sources
In their reports to payors for services or sources of research funding, psychologists take reasonable steps to ensure the
accurate reporting of the nature of the service provided or research conducted, the fees, charges, or payments, and
where applicable, the identity of the provider, the findings, and the diagnosis. (See also Standards 4.01, Maintaining
Confidentiality; 4.04, Minimizing Intrusions on Privacy; and 4.05, Disclosures.)
6.07 Referrals and Fees
When psychologists pay, receive payment from, or divide fees with another professional, other than in an employer-
employee relationship, the payment to each is based on the services provided (clinical, consultative, administrative, or
other) and is not based on the referral itself. (See also Standard 3.09, Cooperation with Other Professionals

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

7.01 Design of Education and Training Programs

Psychologists responsible for education and training programs take reasonable steps to ensure that the programs are
designed to provide the appropriate knowledge and proper experiences, and to meet the requirements for licensure,
certification, or other goals for which claims are made by the program. (See also Standard 5.03, Descriptions of
Workshops and Non-Degree-Granting Educational Programs.)
7.02 Descriptions of Education and Training Programs
Psychologists responsible for education and training programs take reasonable steps to ensure that there is a current
and accurate description of the program content (including participation in required course- or program-related
counseling, psychotherapy, experiential groups, consulting projects, or community service), training goals and
objectives, stipends and benefits, and requirements that must be met for satisfactory completion of the program. This
information must be made readily available to all interested parties.
7.03 Accuracy in Teaching
(a) Psychologists take reasonable steps to ensure that course syllabi are accurate regarding the subject matter to be
covered, bases for evaluating progress, and the nature of course experiences. This standard does not preclude an
instructor from modifying course content or requirements when the instructor considers it pedagogically necessary or
desirable, so long as students are made aware of these modifications in a manner that enables them to fulfill course
requirements. (See also Standard 5.01, Avoidance of False or Deceptive Statements.)
(b) When engaged in teaching or training, psychologists present psychological information accurately. (See also
Standard 2.03, Maintaining Competence.)
7.04 Student Disclosure of Personal Information
Psychologists do not require students or supervisees to disclose personal information in course- or program-related
activities, either orally or in writing, regarding sexual history, history of abuse and neglect, psychological treatment,
and relationships with parents, peers, and spouses or significant others except if (1) the program or training facility has
clearly identified this requirement in its admissions and program materials or (2) the information is necessary to
evaluate or obtain assistance for students whose personal problems could reasonably be judged to be preventing them
from performing their training- or professionally related activities in a competent manner or posing a threat to the
students or others.
7.05 Mandatory Individual or Group Therapy
(a) When individual or group therapy is a program or course requirement, psychologists responsible for that program
allow students in undergraduate and graduate programs the option of selecting such therapy from practitioners
unaffiliated with the program. (See also Standard 7.02, Descriptions of Education and Training Programs.)
(b) Faculty who are or are likely to be responsible for evaluating students' academic performance do not themselves
provide that therapy. (See also Standard 3.05, Multiple Relationships.)
7.06 Assessing Student and Supervisee Performance
(a) In academic and supervisory relationships, psychologists establish a timely and specific process for providing
feedback to students and supervisees. Information regarding the process is provided to the student at the beginning of
supervision.
(b) Psychologists evaluate students and supervisees on the basis of their actual performance on relevant and
established program requirements.
7.07 Sexual Relationships with Students and Supervisees
Psychologists do not engage in sexual relationships with students or supervisees who are in their department, agency,
or training center or over whom psychologists have or are likely to have evaluative authority. (See also Standard 3.05,
Multiple Relationships.)

RESEARCH AND PUBLICATION

8.01 Institutional Approval

When institutional approval is required, psychologists provide accurate information about their research proposals and
obtain approval prior to conducting the research. They conduct the research in accordance with the approved research
protocol.
8.02 Informed Consent to Research
(a) When obtaining informed consent as required in Standard 3.10, Informed Consent, psychologists inform
participants about (1) the purpose of the research, expected duration, and procedures; (2) their right to decline to
participate and to withdraw from the research once participation has begun; (3) the foreseeable consequences of
declining or withdrawing; (4) reasonably foreseeable factors that may be expected to influence their willingness to
participate such as potential risks, discomfort, or adverse effects; (5) any prospective research benefits; (6) limits of
confidentiality; (7) incentives for participation; and (8) whom to contact for questions about the research and research
participants' rights. They provide opportunity for the prospective participants to ask questions and receive answers.
(See also Standards 8.03, Informed Consent for Recording Voices and Images in Research; 8.05, Dispensing with
Informed Consent for Research; and 8.07, Deception in Research.)
(b) Psychologists conducting intervention research involving the use of experimental treatments clarify to participants
at the outset of the research (1) the experimental nature of the treatment; (2) the services that will or will not be
available to the control group(s) if appropriate; (3) the means by which assignment to treatment and control groups
will be made; (4) available treatment alternatives if an individual does not wish to participate in the research or wishes
to withdraw once a study has begun; and (5) compensation for or monetary costs of participating including, if
appropriate, whether reimbursement from the participant or a third-party payor will be sought. (See also
Standard 8.02a, Informed Consent to Research.)
8.03 Informed Consent for Recording Voices and Images in Research
Psychologists obtain informed consent from research participants prior to recording their voices or images for data
collection unless (1) the research consists solely of naturalistic observations in public places, and it is not anticipated
that the recording will be used in a manner that could cause personal identification or harm, or (2) the research design
includes deception, and consent for the use of the recording is obtained during debriefing. (See also Standard 8.07,
Deception in Research.)
8.04 Client/Patient, Student, and Subordinate Research Participants
(a) When psychologists conduct research with clients/patients, students, or subordinates as participants, psychologists
take steps to protect the prospective participants from adverse consequences of declining or withdrawing from
participation.
(b) When research participation is a course requirement or an opportunity for extra credit, the prospective participant
is given the choice of equitable alternative activities.
8.05 Dispensing with Informed Consent for Research
Psychologists may dispense with informed consent only (1) where research would not reasonably be assumed to
create distress or harm and involves (a) the study of normal educational practices, curricula, or classroom management
methods conducted in educational settings; (b) only anonymous questionnaires, naturalistic observations, or archival
research for which disclosure of responses would not place participants at risk of criminal or civil liability or damage
their financial standing, employability, or reputation, and confidentiality is protected; or (c) the study of factors related
to job or organization effectiveness conducted in organizational settings for which there is no risk to participants'
employability, and confidentiality is protected or (2) where otherwise permitted by law or federal or institutional
regulations.
8.06 Offering Inducements for Research Participation
(a) Psychologists make reasonable efforts to avoid offering excessive or inappropriate financial or other inducements
for research participation when such inducements are likely to coerce participation.
(b) When offering professional services as an inducement for research participation, psychologists clarify the nature of
the services, as well as the risks, obligations, and limitations. (See also Standard 6.05, Barter with Clients/Patients.)
8.07 Deception in Research
(a) Psychologists do not conduct a study involving deception unless they have determined that the use of deceptive
techniques is justified by the study's significant prospective scientific, educational, or applied value and that effective
nondeceptive alternative procedures are not feasible.
(b) Psychologists do not deceive prospective participants about research that is reasonably expected to cause physical
pain or severe emotional distress.
(c) Psychologists explain any deception that is an integral feature of the design and conduct of an experiment to
participants as early as is feasible, preferably at the conclusion of their participation, but no later than at the
conclusion of the data collection, and permit participants to withdraw their data. (See also Standard 8.08, Debriefing.)
8.08 Debriefing
(a) Psychologists provide a prompt opportunity for participants to obtain appropriate information about the nature,
results, and conclusions of the research, and they take reasonable steps to correct any misconceptions that participants
may have of which the psychologists are aware.
(b) If scientific or humane values justify delaying or withholding this information, psychologists take reasonable
measures to reduce the risk of harm.
(c) When psychologists become aware that research procedures have harmed a participant, they take reasonable steps
to minimize the harm.
8.09 Humane Care and Use of Animals in Research
(a) Psychologists acquire, care for, use, and dispose of animals in compliance with current federal, state, and local
laws and regulations, and with professional standards.
(b) Psychologists trained in research methods and experienced in the care of laboratory animals supervise all
procedures involving animals and are responsible for ensuring appropriate consideration of their comfort, health, and
humane treatment.
(c) Psychologists ensure that all individuals under their supervision who are using animals have received instruction in
research methods and in the care, maintenance, and handling of the species being used, to the extent appropriate to
their role. (See also Standard 2.05, Delegation of Work to Others.)
(d) Psychologists make reasonable efforts to minimize the discomfort, infection, illness, and pain of animal subjects.
(e) Psychologists use a procedure subjecting animals to pain, stress, or privation only when an alternative procedure is
unavailable and the goal is justified by its prospective scientific, educational, or applied value.
(f) Psychologists perform surgical procedures under appropriate anesthesia and follow techniques to avoid infection
and minimize pain during and after surgery.
(g) When it is appropriate that an animal's life be terminated, psychologists proceed rapidly, with an effort to
minimize pain and in accordance with accepted procedures.
8.10 Reporting Research Results
(a) Psychologists do not fabricate data. (See also Standard 5.01a, Avoidance of False or Deceptive Statements.)
(b) If psychologists discover significant errors in their published data, they take reasonable steps to correct such errors
in a correction, retraction, erratum, or other appropriate publication means.
8.11 Plagiarism
Psychologists do not present portions of another's work or data as their own, even if the other work or data source is
cited occasionally.
8.12 Publication Credit
(a) Psychologists take responsibility and credit, including authorship credit, only for work they have actually
performed or to which they have substantially contributed. (See also Standard 8.12b, Publication Credit.)
(b) Principal authorship and other publication credits accurately reflect the relative scientific or professional
contributions of the individuals involved, regardless of their relative status. Mere possession of an institutional
position, such as department chair, does not justify authorship credit. Minor contributions to the research or to the
writing for publications are acknowledged appropriately, such as in footnotes or in an introductory statement.
(c) Except under exceptional circumstances, a student is listed as principal author on any multiple-authored article that
is substantially based on the student's doctoral dissertation. Faculty advisors discuss publication credit with students as
early as feasible and throughout the research and publication process as appropriate. (See also Standard 8.12b,
Publication Credit.)
8.13 Duplicate Publication of Data
Psychologists do not publish, as original data, data that have been previously published. This does not preclude
republishing data when they are accompanied by proper acknowledgment.
8.14 Sharing Research Data for Verification
(a) After research results are published, psychologists do not withhold the data on which their conclusions are based
from other competent professionals who seek to verify the substantive claims through reanalysis and who intend to
use such data only for that purpose, provided that the confidentiality of the participants can be protected and unless
legal rights concerning proprietary data preclude their release. This does not preclude psychologists from requiring
that such individuals or groups be responsible for costs associated with the provision of such information.
(b) Psychologists who request data from other psychologists to verify the substantive claims through reanalysis may
use shared data only for the declared purpose. Requesting psychologists obtain prior written agreement for all other
uses of the data.
8.15 Reviewers
Psychologists who review material submitted for presentation, publication, grant, or research proposal review respect
the confidentiality of and the proprietary rights in such information of those who submitted it.

ASSESSMENT

9.01 Bases for Assessments

(a) Psychologists base the opinions contained in their recommendations, reports, and diagnostic or evaluative
statements, including forensic testimony, on information and techniques sufficient to substantiate their findings. (See
also Standard 2.04, Bases for Scientific and Professional Judgments.)
(b) Except as noted in 9.01c, psychologists provide opinions of the psychological characteristics of individuals only
after they have conducted an examination of the individuals adequate to support their statements or conclusions.
When, despite reasonable efforts, such an examination is not practical, psychologists document the efforts they made
and the result of those efforts, clarify the probable impact of their limited information on the reliability and validity of
their opinions, and appropriately limit the nature and extent of their conclusions or recommendations. (See also
Standards 2.01, Boundaries of Competence, and 9.06, Interpreting Assessment Results.)
(c) When psychologists conduct a record review or provide consultation or supervision and an individual examination
is not warranted or necessary for the opinion, psychologists explain this and the sources of information on which they
based their conclusions and recommendations.
9.02 Use of Assessments
(a) Psychologists administer, adapt, score, interpret, or use assessment techniques, interviews, tests, or instruments in
a manner and for purposes that are appropriate in light of the research on or evidence of the usefulness and proper
application of the techniques.
(b) Psychologists use assessment instruments whose validity and reliability have been established for use with
members of the population tested. When such validity or reliability has not been established, psychologists describe
the strengths and limitations of test results and interpretation.
(c) Psychologists use assessment methods that are appropriate to an individual's language preference and competence,
unless the use of an alternative language is relevant to the assessment issues.
9.03 Informed Consent in Assessments
(a) Psychologists obtain informed consent for assessments, evaluations, or diagnostic services, as described in
Standard 3.10, Informed Consent, except when (1) testing is mandated by law or governmental regulations; (2)
informed consent is implied because testing is conducted as a routine educational, institutional, or organizational
activity (e.g., when participants voluntarily agree to assessment when applying for a job); or (3) one purpose of the
testing is to evaluate decisional capacity. Informed consent includes an explanation of the nature and purpose of the
assessment, fees, involvement of third parties, and limits of confidentiality and sufficient opportunity for the
client/patient to ask questions and receive answers.
(b) Psychologists inform persons with questionable capacity to consent or for whom testing is mandated by law or
governmental regulations about the nature and purpose of the proposed assessment services, using language that is
reasonably understandable to the person being assessed.
(c) Psychologists using the services of an interpreter obtain informed consent from the client/patient to use that
interpreter, ensure that confidentiality of test results and test security are maintained, and include in their
recommendations, reports, and diagnostic or evaluative statements, including forensic testimony, discussion of any
limitations on the data obtained. (See also Standards 2.05, Delegation of Work to Others; 4.01, Maintaining
Confidentiality; 9.01, Bases for Assessments; 9.06, Interpreting Assessment Results; and 9.07, Assessment by
Unqualified Persons.)
9.04 Release of Test Data
(a) The term test data refers to raw and scaled scores, client/patient responses to test questions or stimuli, and
psychologists' notes and recordings concerning client/patient statements and behavior during an examination. Those
portions of test materials that include client/patient responses are included in the definition of test data. Pursuant to a
client/patient release, psychologists provide test data to the client/patient or other persons identified in the release.
Psychologists may refrain from releasing test data to protect a client/patient or others from substantial harm or misuse
or misrepresentation of the data or the test, recognizing that in many instances release of confidential information
under these circumstances is regulated by law. (See also Standard 9.11, Maintaining Test Security.)
(b) In the absence of a client/patient release, psychologists provide test data only as required by law or court order.
9.05 Test Construction
Psychologists who develop tests and other assessment techniques use appropriate psychometric procedures and
current scientific or professional knowledge for test design, standardization, validation, reduction or elimination of
bias, and recommendations for use.
9.06 Interpreting Assessment Results
When interpreting assessment results, including automated interpretations, psychologists take into account the purpose
of the assessment as well as the various test factors, test-taking abilities, and other characteristics of the person being
assessed, such as situational, personal, linguistic, and cultural differences, that might affect psychologists' judgments
or reduce the accuracy of their interpretations. They indicate any significant limitations of their interpretations. (See
also Standards 2.01b and c, Boundaries of Competence, and 3.01, Unfair Discrimination.)
9.07 Assessment by Unqualified Persons
Psychologists do not promote the use of psychological assessment techniques by unqualified persons, except when
such use is conducted for training purposes with appropriate supervision. (See also Standard 2.05, Delegation of Work
to Others.)
9.08 Obsolete Tests and Outdated Test Results
(a) Psychologists do not base their assessment or intervention decisions or recommendations on data or test results
that are outdated for the current purpose.
(b) Psychologists do not base such decisions or recommendations on tests and measures that are obsolete and not
useful for the current purpose.
9.09 Test Scoring and Interpretation Services
(a) Psychologists who offer assessment or scoring services to other professionals accurately describe the purpose,
norms, validity, reliability, and applications of the procedures and any special qualifications applicable to their use.
(b) Psychologists select scoring and interpretation services (including automated services) on the basis of evidence of
the validity of the program and procedures as well as on other appropriate considerations. (See also Standard 2.01b
and c, Boundaries of Competence.)
(c) Psychologists retain responsibility for the appropriate application, interpretation, and use of assessment
instruments, whether they score and interpret such tests themselves or use automated or other services.
9.10 Explaining Assessment Results
Regardless of whether the scoring and interpretation are done by psychologists, by employees or assistants, or by
automated or other outside services, psychologists take reasonable steps to ensure that explanations of results are
given to the individual or designated representative unless the nature of the relationship precludes provision of an
explanation of results (such as in some organizational consulting, preemployment or security screenings, and forensic
evaluations), and this fact has been clearly explained to the person being assessed in advance.
9.11 Maintaining Test Security
The term test materials refers to manuals, instruments, protocols, and test questions or stimuli and does not
include test data as defined in Standard 9.04, Release of Test Data. Psychologists make reasonable efforts to maintain
the integrity and security of test materials and other assessment techniques consistent with law and contractual
obligations, and in a manner that permits adherence to this Ethics Code.

THERAPY

10.01 Informed Consent to Therapy

(a) When obtaining informed consent to therapy as required in Standard 3.10, Informed Consent, psychologists inform
clients/patients as early as is feasible in the therapeutic relationship about the nature and anticipated course of therapy,
fees, involvement of third parties, and limits of confidentiality and provide sufficient opportunity for the client/patient
to ask questions and receive answers. (See also Standards 4.02, Discussing the Limits of Confidentiality, and 6.04,
Fees and Financial Arrangements.)
(b) When obtaining informed consent for treatment for which generally recognized techniques and procedures have
not been established, psychologists inform their clients/patients of the developing nature of the treatment, the potential
risks involved, alternative treatments that may be available, and the voluntary nature of their participation. (See also
Standards 2.01e, Boundaries of Competence, and 3.10, Informed Consent.)
(c) When the therapist is a trainee and the legal responsibility for the treatment provided resides with the supervisor,
the client/patient, as part of the informed consent procedure, is informed that the therapist is in training and is being
supervised and is given the name of the supervisor.
10.02 Therapy Involving Couples or Families
(a) When psychologists agree to provide services to several persons who have a relationship (such as spouses,
significant others, or parents and children), they take reasonable steps to clarify at the outset (1) which of the
individuals are clients/patients and (2) the relationship the psychologist will have with each person. This clarification
includes the psychologist's role and the probable uses of the services provided or the information obtained. (See also
Standard 4.02, Discussing the Limits of Confidentiality.)
(b) If it becomes apparent that psychologists may be called on to perform potentially conflicting roles (such as family
therapist and then witness for one party in divorce proceedings), psychologists take reasonable steps to clarify and
modify, or withdraw from, roles appropriately. (See also Standard 3.05c, Multiple Relationships.)
10.03 Group Therapy
When psychologists provide services to several persons in a group setting, they describe at the outset the roles and
responsibilities of all parties and the limits of confidentiality.
10.04 Providing Therapy to Those Served by Others
In deciding whether to offer or provide services to those already receiving mental health services elsewhere,
psychologists carefully consider the treatment issues and the potential client's/patient's welfare. Psychologists discuss
these issues with the client/patient or another legally authorized person on behalf of the client/patient in order to
minimize the risk of confusion and conflict, consult with the other service providers when appropriate, and proceed
with caution and sensitivity to the therapeutic issues.
10.05 Sexual Intimacies with Current Therapy Clients/Patients
Psychologists do not engage in sexual intimacies with current therapy clients/patients.
10.06 Sexual Intimacies with Relatives or Significant Others of Current Therapy Clients/Patients
Psychologists do not engage in sexual intimacies with individuals they know to be close relatives, guardians, or
significant others of current clients/patients. Psychologists do not terminate therapy to circumvent this standard.
10.07 Therapy with Former Sexual Partners
Psychologists do not accept as therapy clients/patients persons with whom they have engaged in sexual intimacies.
10.08 Sexual Intimacies with Former Therapy Clients/Patients
(a) Psychologists do not engage in sexual intimacies with former clients/patients for at least two years after cessation
or termination of therapy.
(b) Psychologists do not engage in sexual intimacies with former clients/patients even after a two-year interval except
in the most unusual circumstances. Psychologists who engage in such activity after the two years following cessation
or termination of therapy and of having no sexual contact with the former client/patient bear the burden of
demonstrating that there has been no exploitation, in light of all relevant factors, including (1) the amount of time that
has passed since therapy terminated; (2) the nature, duration, and intensity of the therapy; (3) the circumstances of
termination; (4) the client's/patient's personal history; (5) the client's/patient's current mental status; (6) the likelihood
of adverse impact on the client/patient; and (7) any statements or actions made by the therapist during the course of
therapy suggesting or inviting the possibility of a posttermination sexual or romantic relationship with the
client/patient. (See also Standard 3.05, Multiple Relationships.)
10.09 Interruption of Therapy
When entering into employment or contractual relationships, psychologists make reasonable efforts to provide for
orderly and appropriate resolution of responsibility for client/patient care in the event that the employment or
contractual relationship ends, with paramount consideration given to the welfare of the client/patient. (See also
Standard 3.12, Interruption of Psychological Services.)
10.10 Terminating Therapy
(a) Psychologists terminate therapy when it becomes reasonably clear that the client/patient no longer needs the
service, is not likely to benefit, or is being harmed by continued service.
(b) Psychologists may terminate therapy when threatened or otherwise endangered by the client/patient or another
person with whom the client/patient has a relationship.
(c) Except where precluded by the actions of clients/patients or third-party payors, prior to termination psychologists
provide pretermination counseling and suggest alternative service providers as appropriate.