Ethics in Psychology: A Comprehensive Guide for High School Seniors

Question 1

When a client confides in their therapist about thoughts of self-harm, what is the therapist's ethical obligation?

Accepted Answer

Refer the client to a crisis hotline or mental health professional

Answer

Maintain confidentiality and continue therapy as usual

Answer

Contact the client's family or friends without their consent

Answer

Dismiss the client's disclosure as unimportant and hope the thoughts pass

Question 2

A client confides in their psychologist that they are experiencing thoughts of self-harm. Which ethical principle requires the psychologist to prioritize the client's well-being above all else in this situation?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Confidentiality

Question 3

When working with individuals from a collectivist culture, which ethical consideration is most important to keep in mind?

Accepted Answer

Considering the potential impact on the person's extended family and wider social network

Answer

Prioritizing personal autonomy over family concerns

Answer

Strictly adhering to Western standards of confidentiality and privacy

Answer

Obtaining informed consent from both the individual and their extended family members

Question 4

In the context of psychological applications, what is a primary ethical concern related to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

Accepted Answer

Potential for bias and discrimination due to AI algorithms trained on biased data.

Answer

Enhanced privacy protections due to AI's streamlined data handling processes.

Answer

Elimination of human error and subjectivity in psychological decision-making.

Question 5

During an interview for a research study on social media's impact on body image and self-esteem, a 16-year-old participant discloses suicidal thoughts. What is the most ethical course of action?

Accepted Answer

Pause the interview, obtain consent to contact the participant's parents, and provide immediate support resources.

Answer

End the interview immediately and contact the participant's parents without seeking consent.

Answer

Proceed with the interview as planned, addressing the participant's suicidal thoughts at the end.

Question 6

In psychological assessment, what ethical principles guide the development and implementation of standardized tests? Explain the importance of fairness, validity, and minimizing bias.

Accepted Answer

Ethical principles prioritize fairness, validity, and minimizing bias for accurate and unbiased evaluations.

Answer

Ethical principles emphasize subjective measures due to their depth of information.

Answer

Validity and fairness are interchangeable concepts in assessment.

Answer

Ethical guidelines require standardized assessments for consistency and bias reduction.

Question 7

Psychologists have ethical obligations when it comes to reporting suspected child abuse or neglect. How should they balance maintaining confidentiality with protecting children?

Accepted Answer

Balance confidentiality with child safety; report only if the child is in immediate danger.

Answer

Report any suspicion to authorities, regardless of consequences.

Answer

Never report suspected cases to authorities.

Answer

Report only with irrefutable proof of harm.

Question 8

Which action violates participants' autonomy in the context of informed consent?

Accepted Answer

Withholding information that could influence participants' decisions.

Answer

Providing clear and concise information about the study.

Answer

Respecting participants' right to withdraw from the study without penalty.

Answer

Using non-coercive language during the consent process.

Question 9

Which of the following is NOT a primary responsibility of Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) in safeguarding participants' rights in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

Providing legal counsel or representation to researchers in the event of ethical concerns or legal disputes

Answer

Reviewing research proposals to evaluate ethical considerations and ensure compliance with ethical guidelines

Answer

Monitoring ongoing research projects to verify adherence to ethical standards and ensure participants' safety

Answer

Offering educational resources and training to researchers on ethical principles in research

Question 10

In psychological practice, explain the ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence. How do these principles guide psychologists' decisions and actions?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence prioritizes participants' well-being, while non-maleficence prevents harm.

Answer

Non-maleficence is the main ethical principle, with beneficence being less important.

Answer

Beneficence and non-maleficence only apply to research ethics, not clinical practice.

Answer

Psychologists have no ethical duty to consider participants' well-being beyond the research or clinical intervention.

Question 11

In psychological research, withholding information about the study's purpose from participants raises ethical concerns primarily because it:

Accepted Answer

Undermines participants' autonomy and trust.

Answer

Can lead to inaccurate research results.

Answer

May cause participants unnecessary stress.

Question 12

A psychologist is working with a client who expresses suicidal ideation. According to ethical guidelines, what should the psychologist do first?

Accepted Answer

Refer the client to a mental health professional who specializes in suicide prevention.

Answer

Contact the client's family or friends without their consent.

Answer

Hospitalize the client against their will.

Answer

Tell the client to stop thinking about suicide.

Question 13

Which ethical principle emphasizes the importance of avoiding harm to participants during research?

Accepted Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Confidentiality

Question 14

Which ethical principle is violated when a researcher influences participants' decisions to participate in a study?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Non-maleficence

Question 15

Which ethical principle requires that psychologists aim for fairness and equity in their work?

Accepted Answer

Justice

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Non-maleficence

Question 16

In research, the investigator has a duty to:

Accepted Answer

Minimize risks to participants

Answer

Maximize benefits to participants

Answer

Minimize time spent in the study

Answer

Minimize financial costs to participants

Question 17

What is the primary role of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

To ensure that research is ethical and minimizes risks to participants.

Answer

To approve all funding for psychological research projects.

Answer

To provide legal protection for researchers.

Answer

To review and approve all research proposals submitted to the institution.

Question 18

Which ethical principle emphasizes the importance of researchers reporting their findings accurately and without distortion?

Accepted Answer

Integrity

Answer

Justice

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Confidentiality

Question 19

How do the ethical principles of beneficence and justice differ in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence focuses on maximizing benefits, while justice focuses on distributing benefits fairly.

Answer

Justice focuses on maximizing benefits, while beneficence focuses on distributing benefits fairly.

Answer

Beneficence and justice are synonymous concepts in research ethics.

Answer

Justice is more important than beneficence in research.

Question 20

In which scenario is it appropriate to use double-blind procedures in research?

Accepted Answer

When neither the researcher nor the participants are aware of the group assignments or hypothesis.

Answer

When the researcher is aware of the participants' group assignments but the participants are not.

Answer

When the participants are aware of the hypothesis being tested but the researcher is not.

Answer

Double-blind procedures are never appropriate in research.

Question 21

Which of the following is NOT a core ethical principle in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Personal gain

Answer

Respect for persons

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Question 22

The primary purpose of the Belmont Report in psychology is to:

Accepted Answer

Establish ethical guidelines for human subjects research in the United States

Answer

Promote diversity and inclusion in psychology

Answer

Regulate the use of psychological tests and assessments

Answer

Define the scope of practice for psychologists

Question 23

Which ethical principle emphasizes the importance of treating research participants with dignity and respect?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy: Respecting participants' right to make informed decisions

Answer

Beneficence: Maximizing benefits and minimizing harm

Answer

Justice: Ensuring fair treatment and equitable access

Answer

Non-maleficence: Avoiding causing harm or distress

Question 24

Which ethical principle prioritizes the avoidance of harm to participants in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Respect for Autonomy

Answer

Fidelity

Question 25

Which professional organization establishes ethical guidelines for psychologists?

Accepted Answer

American Psychological Association

Answer

International Society for Research Ethics

Answer

World Health Organization

Answer

National Institute of Health

Question 26

Which ethical principle emphasizes the autonomy of research participants, allowing them to make informed decisions about their participation?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Nonmaleficence

Question 27

Which ethical principle requires researchers to treat all participants with fairness and respect, regardless of their personal characteristics?

Accepted Answer

Justice

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Fidelity

Question 28

Which ethical guideline emphasizes the importance of minimizing potential harm to participants in research?

Accepted Answer

Nonmaleficence

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Autonomy

Question 29

Which ethical principle emphasizes the participant's right to choose whether to participate in research?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Nonmaleficence

Answer

Justice

Question 30

A researcher should ensure that the benefits of the research outweigh the risks to participants. This is an example of which ethical principle?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Nonmaleficence

Answer

Justice

Question 31

Which ethical guideline requires researchers to provide potential participants with clear and comprehensive information about the research, including its purpose, procedures, risks, and benefits?

Accepted Answer

Informed consent

Answer

Institutional review board (IRB) approval

Answer

Confidentiality

Answer

Debriefing

Question 32

An IRB is a group of individuals who:

Accepted Answer

Review and approve research proposals to ensure they adhere to ethical standards

Answer

Conduct the research itself

Answer

Analyze the data and write the research report

Answer

Recruit participants for the research

Question 33

What is the main purpose of debriefing participants after a research study?

Accepted Answer

To address any questions or concerns they may have

Answer

To inform them of any new information about the study

Answer

To obtain their consent to use their data in future research

Answer

To ask them for feedback on the research experience

Question 34

Which ethical guideline prohibits researchers from misleading participants about the nature of their research?

Accepted Answer

Truthfulness

Answer

Confidentiality

Answer

Privacy

Answer

Objectivity

Question 35

Informed consent should be obtained from:

Accepted Answer

All individuals who participate in research

Answer

Only participants who are under 18 years of age

Answer

Only participants who are considered vulnerable or at risk

Answer

Only participants who are competent to make decisions

Question 36

Which of the following is NOT a specific requirement for informed consent in psychological research, according to the American Psychological Association (APA) guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Participants must be compensated for their participation in the research.

Answer

Participants must be provided with a clear and concise explanation of the research.

Answer

Participants must be given the opportunity to ask questions and receive satisfactory answers.

Answer

Participants must be informed of any potential risks or discomforts associated with the research.

Question 37

In cross-cultural psychological research, which strategy is most ethical and effective for building rapport and reducing power imbalances?

Accepted Answer

Collaborate, respect cultural norms, and seek participant feedback

Answer

Enforce a strict hierarchy to maintain control

Answer

Speak authoritatively to establish expertise

Answer

Assume superiority of the researcher's cultural perspective

Question 38

Which of the following is NOT a potential consequence of ethical misconduct in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Career advancement or promotion

Answer

Loss of professional credibility and reputation

Answer

Suspension or revocation of professional license

Answer

Legal repercussions or charges

Question 39

In psychological research, when technology is used to collect and analyze data, which ethical concern becomes especially important?

Accepted Answer

Protecting the privacy and confidentiality of data

Answer

Getting informed consent from participants

Answer

Reducing bias in data collection and analysis

Question 40

Which ethical principle emphasizes the minimization of harm to participants? Select the most appropriate answer.

Accepted Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Question 41

Which process ensures that participants are adequately informed about the study and their rights before agreeing to participate? Identify the correct option.

Accepted Answer

Informed Consent

Answer

Institutional Review Board Approval

Answer

Confidentiality

Answer

Debriefing

Question 42

Which ethical principle emphasizes treating individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their characteristics or backgrounds? Select the most appropriate answer.

Accepted Answer

Respect for Persons

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Question 43

Which research design utilizes a control group to compare the effects of an experimental intervention? Select the most appropriate answer.

Accepted Answer

Experimental Study

Answer

Cross-sectional Study

Answer

Longitudinal Study

Answer

Observational Study

Question 44

What is the primary objective of the Belmont Report? Select the most appropriate answer.

Accepted Answer

Establishing ethical guidelines for research involving human participants

Answer

Promoting diversity in research

Answer

Increasing public trust in psychological research

Answer

Reducing the use of animal studies

Question 45

What term describes a situation where a researcher has a personal or professional connection with a participant involved in their study? Select the most appropriate answer.

Accepted Answer

Conflict of Interest

Answer

Informed Consent

Answer

Debriefing

Answer

Institutional Review Board

Question 46

What is the primary role of an Institutional Review Board (IRB) in psychological research? Select the most appropriate answer.

Accepted Answer

Approving research proposals and monitoring ethical conduct

Answer

Conducting research studies

Answer

Training researchers in ethical principles

Answer

Providing legal advice to researchers

Question 47

Which ethical principle prioritizes minimizing potential harm and maximizing benefits for research participants?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Justice

Answer

Fidelity

Question 48

Which ethical guideline focuses on protecting the privacy and confidentiality of research participants?

Accepted Answer

Privacy and Confidentiality

Answer

Avoiding Plagiarism

Answer

Preventing Plagiarism

Answer

Maintaining Anonymity

Question 49

What is the central objective of the Belmont Report?

Accepted Answer

To establish ethical guidelines for research with human participants.

Answer

To provide a framework for ethical animal research.

Answer

To outline legal requirements for psychological practice.

Answer

To define ethical standards for the use of psychological tests.

Question 50

Which ethical principle mandates that the potential benefits of research must outweigh the potential risks to participants?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Fidelity

Question 51

What is the primary role of Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) in ethical research?

Accepted Answer

To review and approve research protocols to ensure ethical conduct.

Answer

To provide legal advice to researchers on ethical issues.

Answer

To conduct ethical research studies on behalf of researchers.

Answer

To punish researchers who violate ethical guidelines.

Question 52

Which ethical principle emphasizes the importance of fair and impartial treatment for all research participants?

Accepted Answer

Justice

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Fidelity

Question 53

What is the ethical responsibility of researchers when reporting research findings?

Accepted Answer

To present findings accurately and without bias.

Answer

To promote findings that support their hypotheses.

Answer

To avoid reporting findings that may damage their reputation.

Answer

To withhold findings that may be controversial.

Question 54

Which of the following is NOT an essential component of ethical research practice?

Accepted Answer

Offering financial incentives for participation

Answer

Respect for participants' rights

Answer

Avoiding harm to participants

Answer

Maintaining confidentiality

Question 55

Identify the fundamental ethical principle that revolves around respecting the decision-making ability of participants in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

Respect for autonomy

Answer

Informed consent

Answer

Protection from harm

Answer

Beneficence

Question 56

In the context of research involving human subjects, the Belmont Report established three core ethical principles. Which of the following ethical principles is NOT included in the Belmont Report?

Accepted Answer

Honesty

Answer

Respect for persons

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Question 57

When obtaining informed consent from participants in psychological research, which of the following elements is NOT essential to provide?

Accepted Answer

A detailed account of the researcher's personal beliefs

Answer

A clear explanation of the study's purpose

Answer

An outline of the potential risks and benefits involved

Answer

The participant's right to confidentiality

Question 58

In psychological research, which of the following situations does NOT represent a potential conflict of interest?

Accepted Answer

The researcher has no prior knowledge or opinions about the research topic

Answer

The researcher has a financial investment in the outcome of the study

Answer

The researcher is closely related to one of the participants

Answer

The researcher's personal beliefs align with the study's hypothesis

Question 59

What is the primary purpose of the American Psychological Association's (APA) Ethical Code?

Accepted Answer

To provide ethical guidelines for psychologists

Answer

To establish legal standards for psychological practice

Answer

To define the scope of practice for psychologists

Answer

To regulate the use of psychological techniques

Question 60

Which of the following is NOT identified as a potential benefit of upholding ethical principles in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Increasing the number of research participants available

Answer

Protecting participants and society from harm

Answer

Maintaining public trust in the field of psychology

Answer

Enhancing the credibility of psychological research findings

Question 61

In the event of an ethical breach in psychology, what is NOT a potential consequence?

Accepted Answer

Increased public demand for psychological services

Answer

Loss of research funding

Answer

Disciplinary action from licensing boards

Answer

Damage to the reputation of the psychologist

Question 62

As a psychologist, which of the following is NOT considered a key responsibility in promoting ethical practices?

Accepted Answer

Ignoring ethical concerns raised by colleagues

Answer

Educating others about ethics

Answer

Adhering to ethical guidelines in their own work

Answer

Reporting ethical violations to appropriate authorities

Question 63

The use of AI in psychology presents unique ethical challenges. Which of the following are among these challenges?

Accepted Answer

Data privacy and security

Accepted Answer

Algorithmic bias and fairness

Accepted Answer

The impact on human relationships

Answer

The cost of implementation

Question 64

In psychological research, which action is considered a severe violation of research integrity?

Accepted Answer

Inventing data to support a theory

Answer

Replicating a study to confirm findings

Answer

Sharing research methods for transparency

Answer

Employing a rigorous statistical approach to analyze data