What are rules promulgated in the context of psychology?

In the context of psychology, rules promulgated refer to official regulations established by the governing body or commission responsible for overseeing the practice of psychology in a jurisdiction. These rules are formal directives that aim to ensure the ethical practice, competency standards, and legal compliance of psychologists. They are binding and must be followed by licensed practitioners, which helps to uphold public trust and safety in psychological services.

The distinction is important because while best practices and voluntary guidelines can provide valuable direction for psychologists, they typically do not carry the same weight as official regulations. Temporary rules may also exist but are usually limited in scope and time, further differentiating them from the more stable and universally applicable regulations established by the commission. Understanding this framework is vital for adherence to legal and ethical standards in psychological practice.