Final answer:
The 8-step model in psychology involves identifying ethical problems, considering guidelines, consulting colleagues, evaluating responsibilities, considering alternatives, weighing consequences, making a decision, and implementing the action, all while adhering to ethical principles such as autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 8-step model designed to help psychologists make ethical decisions streams from the blending of ethical theories and the practical implications of engaging in professional psychology. The field of psychology overlaps with many ethical concepts, such as ethical egoism, utilitarianism, deontology, and considerations of justice and fairness. These foundations inform the necessary procedures and considerations that are vital when addressing ethical issues, whether in research or practice.
Recognizing the importance of ethics in psychology, the steps in the ethical decision-making model often include identifying the problem, considering the relevant ethical guidelines, consulting with colleagues, evaluating the rights and responsibilities involved, considering alternative actions, weighing the consequences of each alternative, deciding on what appears to be the best course of action, and implementing this action. It's essential that psychologists consider ethical guidelines such as informed consent, respect for patient's rights, and maintaining patient confidentiality, all within the purview of institutional review boards and other oversight mechanisms.
In addition to these steps, a deep understanding of ethical theory helps inform what constitutes right action, right livelihood, and other components of ethical conduct, whether derived from meditation, introspection, or the categorical imperative. Clinical practice and microbiological research are guided by the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice to ensure that human and animal subjects are treated with the respect and care they deserve.
Moreover, the American Sociological Association's Code of Ethics provides a framework that ensures sociologists adhere to ethical research and publication standards, preventing harm to research participants.