Does APA policy apply to psychologists who observe other people engaged in torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment? What responsibility do psychologists have?
A. APA’s policy applies to all psychologists in all contexts. The 2006 resolution against torture emphasizes that “psychologists shall be alert to acts of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and have an ethical responsibility to report these acts to the appropriate authorities.” Q. A great deal of controversy has surrounded the definition of “torture” under U.S. law. Which law— U.S. or international—guides APA policy on the treatment of detainees? A. In 2000, in recognition of APA’s efforts to promote human rights, APA received consultative status as a non-governmental organization at the United Nations. As such, APA is committed to the spirit, purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter and other relevant international instruments, such as the U.N. Convention Against Torture. In keeping with this commitment, APA’s 2006 resolution states that psychologists “shall work in accordance with international human rights instruments relevant to their roles.
Related Questions
- Does APA policy apply to psychologists who observe other people engaged in torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment? What responsibility do psychologists have?
- Does APA policy allow psychologists in the military, CIA or those employed as consultants to participate in torture if they are ordered to do so?
- Does APA have a position on the use of torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment during interrogations?
