Codigo de Ética y Disciplina del CODOPSI | IPEF

Understanding the Code of Ethics and Discipline in Psychology

Introduction to the Code

• The speaker, Luz Rosa Estrella, introduces the video explaining the Code of Ethics and Discipline for psychologists in the Dominican Republic.

• This code was approved during assembly sessions from October 28, 2001, to January 12, 2002.

Structure of the Code

• The code consists of 9 chapters and 39 articles, outlining ethical principles for professional conduct.

• Chapter 1 details principles governing professional practice, emphasizing that all psychologists must possess a valid exequatur as per Law No. 111.

Professional Conduct Guidelines

• Article 2 prohibits psychologists from denigrating other professionals or using private life aspects that could harm their reputation.

• Article 3 mandates proper training in techniques used professionally and acknowledgment of personal limitations.

Reporting Violations

• Article 4 requires psychologists to report anyone practicing without meeting legal requirements to the appropriate authority.

• Article 5 forbids offering services to individuals already receiving assistance from another psychologist.

Responsibilities in Conflict Situations

• Article 7 emphasizes defining responsibilities clearly when involved in conflicts with third parties.

• Psychologists must maintain accurate records of their professional activities as stated in Article 8.

Public Statements and Media Engagement

• Chapter 2 addresses public declarations; Article 12 stresses clarity and objectivity in any public statement made by a psychologist.

• Articles also cover how information should be communicated responsibly to non-specialists regarding psychological procedures (Article 13).

Confidentiality Standards

• Chapter 3 focuses on confidentiality; Article 15 enforces strict confidentiality regarding data obtained through professional activities.

• In cases where there is imminent danger, information may be disclosed without consent (Article 16).

Record Keeping and Data Management

• Article 17 discusses planning for record retention after a psychologist's incapacity or death, ensuring confidentiality remains intact.

Ethical Guidelines for Psychologists

Overview of Research Disclosure

• The article 20 emphasizes that research results must be presented objectively, ensuring no identifiable information about clients or participants is disclosed.

Professional Limitations and Client Relationships

• Article 21 states that psychologists must limit their professional practice to the actual needs of the client, avoiding exploitation of personal circumstances for special work conditions or higher remuneration.

• Article 22 mandates that psychologists inform clients about the purpose, limitations, and potential risks associated with their services at the beginning of their intervention.

• Psychologists are required to disclose their fees from the first session and provide an estimate of necessary sessions as per article 23.

Ethical Conduct in Professional Relationships

• Article 24 prohibits any sexual advances or relationships with clients due to ethical concerns; if such a risk arises, the professional relationship must be terminated and referred to another colleague.

Scientific Exchange and Collaboration

• Chapter 5 discusses scientific exchange among professionals (articles 25-27), highlighting respect for other professions' boundaries while collaborating in multidisciplinary teams. Psychologists should not create conflicts with other professionals or clients.

Human Rights Advocacy

• Chapter 6 focuses on human rights, requiring psychologists to promote respect for these rights and report violations while adhering to professional principles in psychological practice. This ensures psychological methods are not misused against individuals' rights.

• Psychologists must avoid complicity in actions violating fundamental human rights directly or indirectly.

Psychometric Material Regulations

• Chapter 7 addresses psychometric materials (articles 32-36), stating that psychological evaluation materials should be controlled by trained professionals only, ensuring proper application and interpretation of results shared with clients or families.

• Article 34 specifies that published psychological tests should only be available through specialized editors who manage distribution professionally, including all relevant data regarding validity and usage guidelines.

Sanctions for Code Violations

• Chapter 8 outlines sanctions for code violations (article 37), detailing disciplinary measures based on severity: warnings, private/public reprimands, temporary suspensions, or permanent cancellations depending on the infraction's gravity.

Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct in Psychology

Violations and Ethical Standards

• The failure to fulfill duties associated with elected positions within the Codoxia, as well as violations of established ethical norms in the Code of Ethics and Discipline, are classified as serious offenses.

• Actions that correspond to willful criminal conduct in a professional context, including attacks on human dignity during professional practice, are addressed under these ethical standards.

Application of the Code

• Chapter 9 discusses the application of this code, stating that it applies universally to all psychologists practicing in the Dominican Republic, regardless of their registration status.