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Code of Ethics and Professionalism in Light of Cultural Competency: A Guideline for Saudi Psychologists, Supervisors, and Trainees

Psychological Studies volume 61, pages 103–112 (2016)Cite this article

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of ethical issues in professional psychology. Specifically, it addresses the broad ethical ideas and views of psychological practices, in light of cultural competency. Its aim is to be the first Saudi document about ethics and professionalism, with a specific purpose as a guideline for trainees becoming culturally competent ethical psychologists. This paper describes the ethical code through three main categories: General Ethical Standards; Ethical Issues about Assessment and Treatments; and Cultural Competency and Professionalism Issues. Furthermore, it attempts to illustrate some of the cultural dilemmas connected with the application of international psychological ethical guidelines, particularly in Saudi Arabia. This project concludes it is essential for trainees, supervisors, and training program advisors to understand ethical and professional responsibilities, as they relate to culture competence and work, during trainees’ internships.

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Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank and acknowledge the following reviewers of this position paper, who provided valuable insights and recommendations on the core of the General Ethical Standards: Dr. Abeer Khayat (King Abdulaziz University); Dr. Ahmed Alkhalaf (Albaha University); Dr. Ahmad Alshayea (King Saud University); Dr. Falah Al-Enez (University of Tabuk); Mr. Khalid Alayed (Saudi Commission for Health Specialties); Dr. Muwafak Al-Eithan (Prince Sultan Military Medical City); Dr. Saeed Wahass (University of Dammam). The thanks extend to all of the Academic Staff of Psychology Department at King Khalid University who participated in the discussions. Finally, we thank the anonymous reviewers who gave us helpful suggestions to improve the final manuscript. The authors did not receive any funding for the work presented in this manuscript.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. King Khalid University, PO Box 376624, Riyadh, 11335, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

    Mohammed M. J. Alqahtani

  2. King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

    Nadia Altamimi

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  1. Mohammed M. J. Alqahtani
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  2. Nadia Altamimi
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Correspondence to Mohammed M. J. Alqahtani.

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Alqahtani, M.M.J., Altamimi, N. Code of Ethics and Professionalism in Light of Cultural Competency: A Guideline for Saudi Psychologists, Supervisors, and Trainees. Psychol Stud 61, 103–112 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12646-016-0354-x

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