Some patients are incapable of giving informed consent to participate in the treatment plan mapped out for them. In instances where this problem appears likely, what, from an ethical standpoint, would be inappropriate for the psychologist to do?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is ethically wrong for a psychologist to assume, solely based on the clinical diagnosis in the patient's chart and difficulty obtaining informed consent in the past, that an attempt this time would also be unsuccessful. Each situation is different, and unless the psychologist is mandated to do otherwise, every effort must be made to obtain the necessary informed consent-either from the patient directly or from a legally authorized representative.

Some Patients Are Incapable of Giving Informed Consent to Participate