Eric Lundin, Principal Psychologist at Psychological Services Dunedin, is modest when asked about being named a Fellow of the New Zealand College of Clinical Psychologists at last year’s AGM, which for him simply provides further evidence that Corrections’ psychologists are highly respected practitioners.
“In my opinion, Corrections can be proud of the high-level of professionalism and ethical standards of its psychologists, sometimes in challenging circumstances,” says Eric.
Eric received the award in recognition of his long standing contribution to the College which spans nearly 20 years. In particular, he contributed to the development of the current Psychologists’ Code of Ethics in his position on the College’s Ethics Committee.
The Psychologists' Code of Ethics was developed by working parties representing major professional psychology groups. The Code is partly based on the Canadian Psychologists' Code of Ethics but recognises the unique role of Maori in New Zealand.
The Code gives psychologists guidance in making ethical decisions and is based on four principles:
Eric says Corrections’ psychologists commonly face the situation where their client’s right to confidentiality needs to be balanced against the rights of others and society to be kept safe.
“The new Code makes it clearer how any possible decision to breach the usual professional confidentiality should be made.”
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ISSN 1178-8453