Ethical Issues In Psychology Essay

Abstract: This assignment examines the role of the ethical principles of patient-professional relationship, autonomy, and confidentiality in the ethical reasoning in abnormal behavior. The definition of abnormal behavior is also explored in its application to the diagnosis and treat of psychological disorder. Through both the ethical principles and the definition of abnormal psychology, mental health professionals are able determine how to best treat their patients for the best possible health outcomes.

When addressing the psychological functioning of people, defining what is abnormal is one of the first steps. Generally, one might say that abnormal is simply a deviation from the norm. In reality, it is much more complex. While there is no …show more content…
While at some times, mental health professionals may feel their decision is the best for the patient. However, this may result in focusing on only what they feel will achieve the best results, they begin to lose sight of treating patient as a person. For example, part of the definition of “abnormal” behavior is it causes personal distress to the individual. While the mental health professional will suggest a line of treatment for the patient for their psychological disorder, the mental health professional may be so focused on the achieving the direct health outcome for specifically treating the disorder. As a result, the mental health professional may be overlooking an aspect of the patient’s psychological disorder that could be personally affecting the patient that is causing them distress. While the patient may express their concern and what they feel would be the best discourse for them, the mental health professional may completely dismiss their opinion. It is important for the mental health professional to allow the patient some amount of autonomy in order to develop a therapeutic alliance in which there is congruency of the patient’s and mental health professional’s goals in order to achieve the best health