When is informed consent necessary in psychological practice?

Informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal requirement in psychological practice, particularly when it involves experimental treatments on human subjects. This necessity arises from the imperative to respect the autonomy and decision-making rights of individuals participating in studies or receiving new, untested interventions. When psychological practices involve experimentation, practitioners must provide detailed information about the nature of the treatment, potential risks, benefits, and alternatives, ensuring that participants can make an informed choice regarding their involvement.

Obtaining informed consent prior to experimental treatments safeguards the participants and fosters trust between the practitioner and the client. It ensures that they understand the nature of the experimental intervention and agree to participate voluntarily, fully aware of what it entails. The involvement of human subjects in research carries additional ethical considerations regulated by institutional review boards (IRBs) to prioritize participant safety and rights.

While informed consent may also be relevant in mental health evaluations, medication prescriptions, and family therapy sessions, the most stringent and thorough requirements particularly pertain to experimental treatments due to the unique risks and ethical implications involved.