Importance Of Ethical Challenges In Psychological Assessment

Psychologists face several ethical challenges when conducting assessments. Notably, psychological assessments involve testing using several techniques to achieve a proposition regarding a person’s personality, behavior and capability (Schultheiss & Stead, 2008). The assessment, usually called psychological testing is conducted by a licensed psychologist as they are expertly trained for better performance and interpretation of results. Psychologists work towards developing reliable and valid scientific knowledge according to the research. They apply their knowledge of human behavior in various contexts to get the required results. The psychologists have a goal to respect the essence of the freedom of expression and inquiry either in teaching

They maintain competency throughout their work as they recognize the limits of certain competencies and their expertise limitations. Psychologists render their services using techniques, education and training that they have attained. As a result, they maintain knowledge regarding the scientific information of the services they offer. Psychologists focus on integrity in psychological assessments. Moreover, their clients expect them to uphold honesty, respect and fairness throughout the process as this builds trust (Schultheiss et al., 2008). Psychologists should therefore avoid making false, deceptive or misleading statements when administering psychological assessments. While administering psychological tests, psychologists uphold the respect of individual rights to self-determination, confidentiality, anatomy and privacy (Plante, 2007). Psychologists are mindful of inconsistencies that could trigger conflict and violate these rights. They also strive to eliminate the impact of bias on their work by averting any discriminatory practices when administering

In this case, valuable information is collected through interviews. If it is an interview about a child, the interviews will also involve teachers, parents and any other person who is conversant with the child. Noteworthy, interviews are less structured and open in nature hence allowing interviewees to give information in their own interpretation and words. Psychologists usually engage the individual in a formal clinical interview before commencing the psychological assessment (Schultheiss et al., 2008). The psychologist assesses the childhood or personal history, current life experiences, work or school history and family background.
Psychological assessments are also administered through observations of the individual subject. If that individual is a child, the psychologists will assess the behavior in school settings, neighborhood and at home. The psychologist will also establish whether the teacher treats every child equally and the reactions of other children towards the child. The findings will provide a better picture of the functioning of the child hence the ease of the psychologist in formulating treatment proposals (Schultheiss et al.,