8 Step Decision Making Model

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In the therapeutic and forensic psychology practice, there comes a time where a situation arises in which there is no right or wrong course of action. All psychologists and therapists adhere to a framework of ethical guidelines and principles that assist them in different situations to allow them to recognize the highest ethical way to conduct a relationship, evaluation, or analysis. Making a decision in these areas of expertise can be a conflict when one does not understand ethical dilemmas associated with a certain choice. The 8-step decision making model is aimed to involve clients in a collaborative partnership. This process allows the practitioner to determine several factors that ranges from relationship problems, to issues involved, …show more content…

Once the problem is identified, one must determine if the problem is an ethical, financial, or legal matter. Second step is to identify the issues or potential issues involved. A practitioner will evaluate rights, responsibilities, welfare, harm, and protection of client as well as the practitioner him/herself. One must refer to codes and guidelines prioritize the potential issues and identify the ethical issues involved (Bush, 2006) which also a part of step 3. Step 4 pertains to the practitioners knowledge and the laws that are applicable to the situation or problem being considered. In this step, the therapist or psychologist must determine the laws as well as institution or agency policies that apply to the problem and any ethical dilemma in such a situation. Step 5 encourages the obtaining of consultation. Practitioners must be knowledgeable of where to seek consultation about ethical issues or problems. Also, one must understand the importance of a separate or different perspective on the matter. Step 6 determines or considers the possible course of action. A therapist must determine whether they are willing to go forth with the situation. If so, one must consider a systematic method for analysis of ethical consequences of actions, which is step 7 of the process (Bush, 2006). Step 8 is ultimately deciding on what seems to be the best decision or course of action after careful consideration of all factors and potential