Encouraging Unreliable Forensic Practices?

Abstract

In contrast to its 1992 ethical code, the American Psychological Association's proposed ethical code allows psychologists to embrace novel scientific hypotheses and unproven clinical conjectures. Unlike the 1992 code, the proposed code neglects the significance of “scientifically derived information.” The proposed code also no longer obligates psychologists to acknowledge the limits of their data or conclusions when testifying in legal proceedings. While detailing changes between the 1992 code and the proposed code, well-prepared cross-examination could embarrass and discredit psychologists. Compared to the ethical obligations of social workers and psychiatrists, the proposed APA code is less demanding. Adopting the proposed APA code, in its present form, is therefore ill-advised.

Key Words:

• Ethical codes
• ethical codes of psychologists
• forensic psychology
• ethics in forensic psychology
• cross-examination strategies