Ethical Challenges for Military Psychologists: When Worlds Collide. Issue 4 (19th May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Frey, Rae Anne M.
• Is Part Of: Ethics & behavior. Volume 27:Issue 4(2017)
• Page Start: 283
• Page End: 296
• Publication Date: 2017-05-19
• Subjects: confidentiality -- dual-role relationships -- ethical conflicts -- multiple-role relationships; Ethics -- Periodicals; 170.5
• DOI: 10.1080/10508422.2016.1193811
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1050-8422

Abstract

Abstract : Despite the mental health needs in the military and improved access to military psychologists, many in need do not seek psychological services. The military policies, culture, and environment pose considerable barriers to help seeking. In turn, military practices often conflict with the psychologist's professional ethics, leading to a range of ethical dilemmas including multiple relationships, multiple agencies, and limited confidentiality. To address ethical concerns and encourage service members to seek mental health services, this article proposes maintaining an understanding of military rules, law, and professional ethics; identifying multiple relationships and establishing boundaries up front; and collaborating with the patient in disclosures of information.