Clinical Definition Psychologist

Clinical Definition Psychologist

Clinical Definition Psychologist

Like other professionals, psychologists are bound by a code of conduct. This code specifies the psychologist’s professional and ethical responsibilities. It clearly outlines behaviors that are acceptable versus unacceptable as regards the practice of psychology. Psychologists in North America are licensed by the professional psychology college, association, or order for the state or province in which they practice and must adhere to this multi-dimensional code of ethics in order to maintain their licence.

Job Clarity

To further define the licence granted a psychologist, the code of ethics for any given state or province defines the practice of psychology, through roles and obligations, so that there is consistency within the field. In this manner, the psychologist’s licence has meaning to the public, giving them an idea of what to expect from someone who calls themselves a psychologist.

Respectful Behavior

The main goal of the psychologist code of ethics is to ensure, above all, that the client is treated in a professional, lawful, and respectful manner. It defines behaviors, such as guaranteed confidentiality, that regulate the private as well as institutional practice of psychology so that anyone serviced by a psychologist is ensured professional, humane treatment that does no psychological or physical harm.