Essay --

Ethics in School PsychologySchool psychologists are presented with making honorable decisions on a daily basis due to the delicate balance between the needs of teachs, parents, and squirtren. What may be in the best interest of the child may involvement with the desires of the parents or may require work the school would rather ignore. Ethical dilemmas become increasingly complicated when state or federal laws conflict with ethical principles that could result in legal consequences. Ethical issues are a critical component for both the training and professional guidelines for the Ameri back end Psychological Association (APA) and the content Association of School Psychology (Nagle, 1987). The current paper will provide an overview of the four overarching NASP ethical principles alongside examples of common ethical dilemmas faced by school psychologists.Respecting the Dignity and Rights of All PersonsThe first principle outlined by NASP (2010) states that School psychologists engage only in professional practices that maintain the high-handedness of all individuals. In their words and actions, school psychologists demonstrate respect for the autonomy of persons and their right to self-determination, respect for privacy, and a commitment to just and fair treatment of all persons. (p. 302).Additional principles subsumed under this overarching principle include (a) autonomy and self-determination (b) privacy and confidentiality (c) fairness and justice. Autonomy and self-determination respects each individuals right to make decisions that actuate him or herself including consent and assent processes. There are ethical exceptions to parental consent, such as consultation services to a teacher regarding interventions with a child tha... ...e of school psychologists responsibilities demands an effective strategy to approach ethical dilemmas.ConclusionEthical considerations are an integral component to every school psychologists job. NASP (2010) outlines four overarching ethical principles including (a) respecting the dignity and rights of all persons (b) professional competence and responsibility (c) honesty and integrity in professional relationships (d) responsibility to schools, families, communities, the profession, and society. These principles elucidate the complex nature of possible ethical dilemmas that can arise across the diverse range of school psychologists roles. A thorough knowledge of ethics and law make up the foundation for providing effective services to students, families, and schools. Without an understanding of ethics, school psychologists could do more harm than good.