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Ethical Issues for Psychologists in Court Settings (From Who Is the Client, P 43-62, 1980, John Monahan, ed. - See NCJ-77884)

NCJ Number
77886
Author(s)
E A Fersch
Date Published
1980
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses some ethical problems facing psychologists serving in courts that are caused by conflicting goals.
Abstract
The conflict of interests between courts and psychologists causes ethical problems focusing on representations of the effectiveness of psychological services, representations of the psychologist's competence, confidentiality, responsibility to the client, and design and use of research. For example, in matters of confidentiality, a court-appointed psychologist has a duty to report harmful acts planned by the defendant. Here the ethical dilemma is increased by the great difficulty in predicting dangerousness to an individual and to society. Psychologists must be clear as to what role they are performing and aware of the limitations of that role and of the conflicts it raises. Furthermore, psychologists should challenge the traditions which require them to perform certain roles and functions. Three correctional models are discussed: traditional, reform, and rethinking as well as questions of public policy and future roles of psychologists in court settings. Relevant studies are examined. Notes and over 80 references are included.

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