A Cross-Sectional Examination of International Competency Standards

Abstract

The evaluation of competency in the field of psychology has gained international attention in recent years. Focusing on international competencies can promote high standards of care and identify common values of the profession. However, there is little research regarding international perceptions of competency. Examining ethics codes from different countries can highlight international standards of competent practice, as ethics codes outline professional expectations of the field. The current study compared the ethics standards found in 47 codes of ethics representing 51 countries. Seventeen competency standards emerged after ethics codes were analyzed. Implications for the international practice of psychology are discussed.

Keywords:

• competency
• ethics codes
• ethics standards
• international ethics
• professional issues

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Appreciation for data coding is extended to Elise Latino and Oxana Kopeikin.