What do reasonable standards ensure?

Reasonable standards are established to create a framework that promotes fairness, ethics, and consistency in procedures and practices within the field of psychology. These standards ensure that all stakeholders, including clients, practitioners, and institutions, are treated equitably and that their rights are protected. By adhering to reasonable standards, psychologists can provide services that uphold integrity and professionalism, fostering an environment of trust and respect.

In contrast, unrestricted access to documents could violate confidentiality and privacy rights, which diverges from the notion of fair practices. Guidelines for unethical practices would undermine the very foundation of ethical standards in psychology, and increased bureaucracy typically complicates processes rather than streamlining them in a manner that promotes fairness. Therefore, the emphasis is on the creation and implementation of fair procedures and practices, which is why the selection is justified.