Essay --

Ethics in School Psychology School psychologists are presented with making ethical decisions on a daily basis due to the delicate balance between the needs of schools, parents, and children. What may be in the best interest of the child may conflict with the desires of the parents or may require services the school would rather ignore. Ethical dilemmas become increasingly complicated when state or federal laws conflict with ethical principles that could result in legal consequences. Ethical issues are a critical component for both the training and professional guidelines for the American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Association of School Psychology (Nagle, 1987). The current paper will provide an overview of the four overarching NASP ethical principles alongside examples of common ethical dilemmas faced by school psychologists. Respecting the Dignity and Rights of All Persons The first principle outlined by NASP (2010) states that: School psychologists engage only in professional practices that maintain the dignity of all individuals. In their words and actions, school psychologists demonstrate respect for the autonomy of persons and their right to self-determination, respect for privacy, and a commitment to just and fair treatment of all persons. (p. 302). Additional principles subsumed under this overarching principle include: (a) autonomy and self-determination; (b) privacy and confidentiality; (c) fairness and justice. Autonomy and self-determination respects each individual’s right to make decisions that affect him or herself including consent and assent processes. There are ethical exceptions to parental consent, such as consultation services to a teacher regarding interventions with a child tha... ...e of school psychologists’ responsibilities demands an effective strategy to approach ethical dilemmas. Conclusion Ethical considerations are an integral component to every school psychologists’ job. NASP (2010) outlines four overarching ethical principles including: (a) respecting the dignity and rights of all persons; (b) professional competence and responsibility; (c) honesty and integrity in professional relationships; (d) responsibility to schools, families, communities, the profession, and society. These principles elucidate the complex nature of possible ethical dilemmas that can arise across the diverse range of school psychologists’ roles. A thorough knowledge of ethics and law make up the foundation for providing effective services to students, families, and schools. Without an understanding of ethics, school psychologists could do more harm than good.