Question: Ethical Dilemmas and Ethical Decision Making

Knowledge and application of a decision-making model to resolve ethical dilemmas are critical for a forensic psychology professional, since ethical dilemmas are common in forensic psychology. This Discussion post invites you to practice application of an ethical decision-making model, share this application with others, and note how others have applied a decision-making model to similar ethical dilemmas.

To prepare for this Discussion:

• Review this week's Learning Resources, particularly the various guidelines assigned this week and last, Chapter 1 in Ethical Practice in Forensic Psychology: A Systematic Model for Decision Making and the article "When Boundaries Are Broken: Inmate's Perceptions of Correctional Staff Boundary Violations."

• Choose one boundary violation from the list on page 364 of the article "When Boundaries Are Broken: Inmate Perceptions of Correctional Staff Boundary Violations" and consider which ethical guidelines pertain to this violation.

Post a response to the following:

• Identify the boundary violation you have chosen from the list on page 364 in the article "When Boundaries Are Broken: Inmate Perceptions of Correctional Staff Boundary Violations."

• Describe the relevant ethical guideline(s) that pertain to the boundary violation.

• Explain how you would apply each of the following eight steps of the ethical decision-making model from Chapter 1 in Ethical Practice in Forensic Psychology: A Systematic Model for Decision Making to your selected boundary violation:

1. Identify the Problem

2. Consider the Significance of the Context and Setting

3. Identify and Use Ethical and Legal Resources

4. Consider Personal Beliefs and Values

5. Develop Possible Solutions to the Problem

6. Consider the Potential Consequences of Various Solutions

7. Choose and Implement a Course of Action

8. Assess the Outcome and Implement Changes as Needed