- Pillay, A. L. (2015). Psychology, ethics, human rights, and national security [Editorial]. South African Journal of Psychology, 45(4), 424–429. https://doi.org/10.1177/0081246315611045
Abstract
This editorial discusses psychology, ethics, human rights, and national security. Being a theoretical discipline as well as an applied clinical and human science, psychology has an array of ethical, legal, and human rights imperatives and responsibilities that guide its practice. Considering the discipline is integrally involved with human beings, their behavior, and emotional health, psychology professionals need to be particularly cognizant of and sensitive to the well-being of the individuals and groups they are involved with either directly or indirectly. However, it is questionable whether all psychologists are aware of their responsibilities, accountabilities, and the rights of others. Among the various ethical principles guiding the practice of the profession are those of beneficence and non-maleficence. Ethical and legal issues in psychology are generally taught at graduate level. In the South African context, much of the course content involves the ethical code of the Professional Board for Psychology of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the general principles inherent in other well-known psychology ethics codes. There are several lessons to be learned. Among them is the sensitivity of regulatory and professional bodies to alerts of questionable practices and behaviors by its members.