Ethical considerations in dual relationships: The sport psychologist-coach

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to sensitize service providers to the ethical dilemna resulting when a sport psychologist also serves as the team's coach. The blending of these two roles raises serious questions concerning the sport psychologist's professional judgement and places both the athlete and psychologist in a potentially exploitative position. Underlying the Ethical Principles of Psychologists is the demand that psychologists protect the welfare of those with whom they work. Issues such as responsibility, scientific evidence, confidentiality, public statements, and interpersonal boundary concerns all require that psychologists maintain a clear sense of their ethical obligations within their professional relationships. The sport psychologist is admonished to carefully consider the consequences when blending the psychologist role with any other.