Adam promises his participants that they would receive extra course credits for their participation in his experiment. But he forgets to inform their instructor about this, and thus the students are not marked with the promised extra credit points. Which principle of the APA Ethics Code has Adam violated?
Social Studies · High School · Sun Jan 24 2021
Answered on
The scenario you described raises ethical concerns related to the principle of Integrity from the American Psychological Association (APA) Ethics Code. Specifically, Adam's failure to inform the instructor about the promised extra course credits for participants goes against the ethical standard of honesty and truthfulness.
The relevant section of the APA Ethics Code is Principle B: Fidelity and Responsibility. Psychologists are expected to be faithful to the truth and strive for accuracy in the science, teaching, and practice of psychology. In this case, failing to communicate the promised extra course credits to the instructor violates the principles of honesty and integrity, as it creates a discrepancy between what was promised to participants and the actual outcomes.
Psychologists are encouraged to establish and maintain the necessary conditions for honesty and integrity in all professional relationships. If there are changes or deviations from what was initially communicated to participants, it is essential to communicate those changes transparently and responsibly.