ASPPB Ethical Standards & Professional Conduct 5

Question 1

A psychologist is asked by a client to write a letter supporting their emotional support animal (ESA) for housing. The psychologist has only met with the client twice. The most ethical approach is to:

Accepted Answer

Conduct a thorough assessment to support the documentation with clinical validity

Answer

Psychologists must base professional documentation on adequate assessment and not provide letters that misrepresent their knowledge of the client's clinical status.

Question 2

Under ASPPB's Model Act, which behavior would most clearly constitute unprofessional conduct warranting disciplinary action?

Accepted Answer

Billing for services not rendered

Answer

Billing for services not rendered constitutes fraud and is a clear violation of professional and ethical conduct standards enforceable by licensing boards.

Question 3

A psychologist who practices in a rural area is the only mental health provider within 50 miles. A potential client is also an acquaintance. The psychologist should:

Accepted Answer

Proceed with treatment after carefully considering potential risks and documenting the decision

Answer

In rural settings, multiple relationships are sometimes unavoidable; the ethical standard requires careful risk assessment and documentation rather than blanket refusal.

Question 4

Which action best exemplifies the ethical standard of fidelity in professional psychology?

Accepted Answer

Honoring commitments made to clients, colleagues, and the profession

Answer

Fidelity refers to being trustworthy and keeping commitments to those with whom psychologists work, a core principle of the APA Ethics Code.

Question 5

A client who was previously seen for depression contacts a psychologist asking to restart treatment after a 3-year gap. The psychologist should treat this as:

Accepted Answer

A new client intake requiring updated assessment and a new informed consent process

Answer

A significant treatment gap requires treating the person as a new intake, including fresh assessment and updated informed consent to reflect current circumstances.

(ASPPB) Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards Practice Test

(ASPPB) Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards Practice Test

ASPPB Ethical Standards & Professional Conduct 5