By: Jerome Fitts
Hello Everyone,
What is the relationship between ethics and diversity?
Ethics and diversity share a common ground based on the moral compass of equality. There could not be a standard of ethics exemplified without diversified scenarios. As Ethic advocate and lecturer, Aly Colon wrote in November 2023 for Poynter publication; “give voice to the voiceless.” illustrates the foundation for which ethics are essential for diversity (Colón, 2014b). Diversified acceptance is the starting point while upholding ethical standards.
Why should psychologists consider diversity and ethics together during their work?
The psychologist’s practice is to provide a trusting service while facilitating the client’s needs. Their education and qualifications are relied on, which is not biased based on the race or gender of the individual.
To ensure this professional practice and trust from the client, they must remain disciplined. This is achieved by following the American Psychological Association: “Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct” to practice (Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, n.d.).
The general principles written within The American Psychological Association are Beneficence and Nonmaleficence. They also include Fidelity and Responsibility. Integrity, Justice, and Respect for People’s Rights and Dignity are key aspects too (Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, n.d.).
Imagine you are assisting with a psychology study in your community. What actions or strategies might you consider to ensure that the study complies with Ethical Standard 3.01 of the APA Ethics Code?
The first step I would take when considering a psychological study in my community is to send a written proposal. This proposal needs approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB). It is vital to show the necessity of the study. I must explain how the study would be conducted. I will provide written details that follow the guidelines of the IRB (FDA Error, n.d.).
If there were tools or instruments that I felt necessary, then I would list them. Such as; who the participants were and the benefits while reassuring both the board and those involved of the risk factors (FDA Error, n.d.).
Once the study has been approved, I would reiterate the information verbatim in writing. I would also do so orally. This is done before having the participants sign a mandatory medical waiver form. And the participant would have to be accompanied by a competent and coherent witness. They would know the benefits and risk factors before commencing (Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, n.d. Section 4.04).
References:
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Colón, A. (2014b, November 25). Connecting ethics and diversity. Poynter. https://www.poynter.org/reporting-editing/2003/connecting-ethics-and-diversity/
Ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct. (n.d.). 2.01 https://www.apa.org. https://www.apa.org/ethics/code?item=3
Worth Journey 
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