Navigating the nuances: a matrix of considerations for ethical-legal dilemmas

Prof Psychol Res Pr. 1999 Oct;30(5):495-503. doi: 10.1037/0735-7028.30.5.495.

Abstract

At one time or another, we all have encountered cases with serious ethical and legal implications. How can we know that we have thoroughly explored every facet of these dilemmas? The authors present a 7-category matrix of the following considerations: moral principles and personal values, clinical and cultural considerations, ethics codes, agency or employer policies, statues, rules and regulations, and case law. Two clinical examples illustrate the usefulness of this multidimensional framework for professional psychologists. Implications and applications for practitioners and ethics educators are also discussed.

MeSH terms

  • Codes of Ethics
  • Confidentiality
  • Decision Making
  • Disclosure
  • Education, Professional
  • Ethical Analysis
  • Ethics, Professional*
  • Humans
  • Legislation, Medical
  • Malpractice
  • Managed Care Programs
  • Professional-Patient Relations
  • Psychology / ethics*
  • Psychotherapy
  • Psychotherapy, Group